Halloween

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DAY OF THE DEAD

ORIGINS
The Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico can be traced back to its indigenous pagan cultures. Rituals celebrating the deaths of ancestors had been observed bythese civilizations perhaps for as long as 2,500–3,000 years. In the pre-Hispanic era, skulls were commonly kept as trophies and displayed during the rituals to symbolize death and rebirth.
The festivalthat became the modern Day of the Dead fell in the ninth month of the Aztec calendar, about the beginning of August, and was celebrated for an entire month. The festivities were dedicated to thegoddess known as the "Lady of the Dead", corresponding to the modern Catrina.
In most regions of Mexico, November 1 is to honor children and infants, whereas deceased adults are honored on November 2.This is indicated by generally referring to November 1 mainly as Día de los Inocentes ("Day of the Innocents") but also as Día de los Angelitos ("Day of the Little Angels") and November 2 as Día de losMuertos or Día de los Difuntos ("Day of the Dead")

CULTURE
People go to cementeries to be with the souls of the departed and build private altars containing the favorite foods and beverages, aswell as photos and memorabilia, of the departed. Plans for the day are made throughout the year, including gathering the goods to be offered to the dead. During the three-day period, families usuallyclean and decorate graves.
Toys are brought for dead children and bottles of tequila, mezcal or pulque or jars of atole for adults.
In some parts of Mexico people spend all night beside the graves oftheir relatives. In many places, people have picnics at the grave site, as well.  Families will also offer trinkets or the deceased's favorite candies on the grave. Ofrendas are also put in homes,usually with foods such as candied pumpkin, pan de muerto and sugar skulls.
In many American communities with Mexican residents, Day of the Dead celebrations are very similar to those held in Mexico....