The Day of the Dead

In Mexico, there is a special holiday called the Day of the Dead. It happens at the beginning of November. On this day, families remember people who have died. But the holiday is not sad. Instead, it is full of colour, music, and food. Families build tables at home called altars. They put photos of their relatives on the altar, together with flowers, candles, and the food that these people loved. Bright orange flowers, called marigolds, are used everywhere. People believe that the strong smell helps the spirits find their way home. Many families also visit the cemetery. They clean the graves, bring flowers, and share stories about the past. Children eat sweets shaped like skulls, made of sugar. In the streets, people paint their faces and wear colourful costumes. The Day of the Dead shows a special idea about death. For many Mexicans, death is a natural part of life, not only something to fear. On this day, they celebrate the people they loved and keep their memory alive.