The Day of the Dead, Día de los Muertos, is a festival celebrating the reunion of dead relatives with their families, November 1st and 2nd.

Check out this radio interview about Day of the Dead

Every year, near the end of October and the beginning of November, the Mexican countryside comes to life in a brilliant cascade of vibrant colors. Preparations for Day of the Dead brings together families, street vendors, bakers, artisians, etc. as homes, cemeteries, and community centers are prepared for the grandest of festivities.

The popular belief is that the souls of the dead return each year to visit with their living relatives - to eat, drink and celebrate like never before. They celebrate life in all of its meaning!

Popular celebrations include cleaning and adorning graves and altars for those who have passed on. Copal incense is burned, favorite food and drink is set out for the returning spirits, and prayers and chants are told. Then follows a fiesta where families come together in celebration including food, drink, music, and remembrance.

My experiences with Dia de los Muertos began in 2004 when I traveled to Patzcuaro, Mexico to witness the celebration first hand. Since then, documenting the ancient tradition has become my passion. I've witnessed the celebration throughout Mexico and the United States.

Day of the Dead represents for me, an opportunity to study life - and the most important element of family.

View this blog of my experiences related to my work in Hispanic and Latin American Studies - click here