The Mexican holiday Day of the Dead, Dia de los Muertos is on November 2nd, though the tradition has evolved from All Souls Day, it now includes October 31st and November 1st as well. Many traditions have crossed national lines and in the case of Halloween the celebrations held in Mexico on October 31st are a merging of European cultures via the US. Whilst Halloween is seen as an excuse to party, the Day of the Dead is more serious affair; November 1st is referred to as Dia de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels) and is the day to honour infants and children who have died. November 2nd is the true Dia de los Muertos when families honour adults whom they have lost. It is believed that the souls of the deceased return to earth to be with their loved ones. The favourite food and drink of the deceased are often taken to graves to honour the dead. Costumes, body paint, and imagery of skulls and bones are often important when celebrating these holidays. Oaxaca and Michoacan are the best places to visit as traditional celebrations still run strong in these regions. Be sure to contact Select Latin America to plan a trip for Dia de los Muertos next year.
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