Dia de los Muertos translates to Day of the Dead, a holiday celebrated in central and southern Mexico on November 1st and 2nd. Even though this day of observation occurs simultaneously with the Catholic holiday All Saint’s Day, the native people have combined this with their own ancient faiths of honoring their loved ones that have passed. Although marked throughout Latin America, Day of the Dead is more often associated with Mexico, where the tradition originated.

According to the beliefs of those who celebrate Day of the Dead, the gates of heaven open on the midnight of Halloween, as the spirits of all deceased children are allowed to reunite with their families. Afterwards, on November 2nd, the spirits of the adults come down to enjoy the festivities arranged for them.

On the afternoon of Day of the Dead, celebrants take the festivities to the cemetery. People clean tombs, listen to the music performed by locals, and reminisce the memories of their loved ones. Tradition keeps the villagers together.

Day of the Dead is a very expensive holiday for self-sufficient, indigenous families, as many spend months worth of income to honor their deceased relatives. Most celebrators believe that the radiant spirits of their loved ones will provide protection, good luck, and wisdom to their families. They spend plentiful amounts of time and money making food and statues, and preparing for the festival and parades.

Day of the Dead is expanding across the Western Hemisphere, celebrated by more and more people each year in the United States.