Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is celebrated this week! While Halloween is celebrated the day before, Día de los Muertos is completely separate. It is a celebration of life, specifically of those who have passed away. Typically, November 1st honors children that have passed away and November 2nd adults. While this holiday originated thousands of years ago in pre-Columbian Mexico, it is now celebrated all over the world. It is celebrated differently in various regions in Mexico, but the most integral part of this celebration is the belief that deceased loved ones come back in spirit for the day. Most celebrations also include ofrendas. These ofrendas, or altars, often include photographs, marigolds, food (especially pan de muerto), calaveras (candy skulls), candles, and any other meaningful objects. These altars are so important because it is a way to invite their loved ones back home for the day.  

The Mexican National Art Museum in Pilsen is observing Día de los Muertos with a virtual exhibit, Sólo Un Poco Aquí: Day of the Dead, to memorialize Latino lives lost due to COVID-19. This is exhibit is open now until December 13th. Check it out here!