Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) is one of the most important holidays in Mexico. November First is All Saints’ Day. On this day, all children who have died are honored. On the second day of November, called All Soul’s Day, all others who have passed away are honored. Many Mexicans believe that on these two nights the souls of dead persons return to visit their families. The souls are welcomed into peoples’ homes. Altars are decorated with special foods, candles, incense and flowers for these special visitors. Toys and sweets are added to children’s altars. Altars are set-up at home, in churches, and outside cemeteries. This is the only night of the year when spirits can enjoy eating. Many Mexicans hang food in baskets outside their doors so that passing souls who have no relatives to visit still have the chance to eat something and return to their graves happy.

On this special day, there are many types of toys, miniatures and masks made to look like skulls and skeletons. Certain foods and treats are also made around this holiday. Pan de muerto (bread of the dead) is very common. The dough is sometimes shaped into animals, people, and skeletons and topped with sugar. Another treat called alfenique, a sugar paste, is formed into a variety of figures; these are often used to decorate altars.