1. The Day of the Dead is a celebration of life and death that originated in Mexico.
2. It is not a scary or sad holiday, but rather a time to remember and celebrate loved ones who have passed away.
3. Families create altars (ofrendas) with photos, candles, flowers (especially marigolds), food, and other items that belonged to the deceased.
4. People often visit cemeteries to clean and decorate graves, sometimes staying overnight to honor their loved ones.
5. Traditional foods like sugar skulls and pan de muerto are made and placed on altars.
6. The celebration typically takes place from November 1 to November 2, coinciding with All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.
7. The belief is that the spirits of the dead return to visit their families during this time, guided by the scents and offerings left for them.
8. While it began in Mexico, the tradition has spread to other Latin American countries and is now celebrated in many places around the world.
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