Thursday, November 2, 2017

Dayton, Ohio - Dia de los Muertos Parade 2017




























Day of the Dead (Dia de los muertos) is a Mexican holiday celebrated throughout Mexico, in particular the Central and South regions, and by people of Mexican ancestry living in other places, especially the United States.
It is acknowledged internationally in many other cultures. The multi-day holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died, and help support their spiritual journey.*
Traditions Include:
-Colorful altars decorated by family members. Featuring their loved ones favorite foods, flowers, candles and pan de muerto (a slightly sweet bread specifically made for this time).
-Music, food, story telling and dancing; in celebration of those who are no longer among the living. 
-Mexican marigolds - It's believed these vibrant flowers will help guide their loved ones back to the land of the living. 
-Sugar Skulls - Either bought or made by the family, these sugary skills are added to their loved ones altars. The name of the deceased is often added to the forehead of the sugar skull. 
-Catrina Face Paint and Calacas, which are clothed, decorated and colorful skeleton figurines.