Ever since the movies "Spectre" and “Coco” came out, the Día de los Muertos, in English the Day of the Dead, has been known worldwide. According to popular belief, the souls of the deceased return to their families on these days to pay them a visit.

These are special days for us, because we take great pleasure in this mexican tradition which has spread throughout Latin America. The Día de los Muertos is one of the most important holidays in Mexico. The preparations start already in mid-October. For some, the festival begins on the eve of All Saints' Day, on October 31st, and lasts until November 2nd.

Each family puts an altar or an ofrenda in their home. The gift tables commemorate the deceased with photos, memories, gifts and a candle. On them are sweets, cakes and wines that the deceased liked when they were still alive.

In certain circles it is customary to go to the cemetery on the night of All Saints' Day to light candles on the grave and celebrate the dead. They place traditional cempasuchil on the grave and scatter the yellowish and orange blossoms along the way home. This should help directing the deceased back to their homes. For this reason, the welcome gifts are also placed on the altar.

Various artistic and musical performances take place in the festively decorated cemetery. The streets and shop windows are also decorated with many flowers, as well as beautifully decorated skeletons and images of the Calavera Catrina in various designs.

Pastry shops traditionally bake the Calaveras de Azúcar on All Saints Day. These are skulls made of sugar, chocolate, amaranto or marzipan. El Pan de Muerto, the bread of the dead, is also a very popular specialty during these days.

In Mexico City there is a huge parade that you simply have to experience at least once. the attendees paint their faces like the Calavera Catrina and wear colored clothes. This event attracts thousands of people and fascinates all age groups.

In 2003, the Day of the Dead was even recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity. Unfortunately, the celebration in its traditional form is threatened as it gradually gives way to Halloween.

To get an idea of this beautiful and colorful custom, we highly recommend watching the movie "Coco" – even if you are not a Disney fan.