The celebration was rooted in the ancient Aztec belief that death was a continuation of life. So, it was a joyous time, celebrated each year in early Mexico as a way to remember the dead.
Originally, the Day of the Dead was celebrated in August. But, after Mexico was conquered by the Spanish, Catholic priests moved the feast to coincide with the Christian holy days of All Saints Day and All Souls Day.
To celebrate the Day of the Dead, people often create altars in their homes, which they decorate with bread, candy, photographs, fruit and flowers. Candles are lit in memory of the dead.
Many people believe that by burning candles and incense they are helping the dead return to their homes.
- Little Burgundy Book, Diocese of Saginaw