RA Daniel shares the meaning of Mexico's Dia de los Muertos

Day of the Dead is a colourful and jubilant traditional Mexican celebration, honouring the loved ones who have passed. Rooted in ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, it has been evolved into a symbol of culture, tradition and the unavoidable transition to the afterlife.

According to the people who once inhabited the modern-day Mexico, such as Aztecs, Maya and Purépecha, when one dies, another journey begins. In the company of a dog spirit—or any similar weird-looking spirit version—the freshly departed begins the expedition across the nine trials. Tricky rivers, clashing mountains, obsidian winds and hungry jaguars, among others, wait for one to remove the ego, selfishness and, in general, one’s earthly bonds. After 4 years, wiser and humbler, one reaches the end of the journey. Then, one is devoured by the Gods of death, allowed to enter Mictlan (the place of rest) and becomes one with the universe. Now, one is ready to be called from the mortal realm to feast and laugh again.

Commemorated on November 1st and 2nd, Día de Muertos begins with setting up altar of memoir ofrenda some days before. The elements in the offering can vary according to regional practises, but in general, there are some common components.

  The main guest of the night: the deceased.

Photos, books, personal items, or objects to remember someone whose life touched yours. Deceased family members, close friends who have crossed the marigold bridge, and even beloved pets waiting for us by the river are the most common examples. In addition, one can include representations of deceased teachers or mentors, media icons, historical figures, and others.

To feast: tasty Mexican delicacies.

Tamales, mole, pan de muerto, rice, and seasonal fruit (guava, banana, orange, tangerine) are prepared to nourish the dead and let know they are still awaited. Furthermore, it can be prepared the favourite dish of the departed, such as taco, guacamole and even rabbit treats. Traditional dinks include atole (a corn-based beverage), fruit punch, coffee, and the funny ones—tequila, mezcal and pulque (alcoholic endemic beverages).

Guide signs: to show the way back. 

How do they know the way? Vivid colours, strong aromatic scents, and well-defined paths help them to go back. Marigolds, papel picado (decorative paper banners), candles, incense, tangerines, mirrors, and paths of flower petals lead the dead to the altar.

Once the altar is ready, it is just a matter of time.

When sun rises on November 1st, eager and fiery armies of caretakers of memory (relatives) invade the cemeteries to clean and decorate the gravestones. Armed with massive and often insane quantities of flowers, people design stunning and complex ornaments, where marigolds and cockscombs stand out by their mythical contrast. Then, as day fades, the celebration begins and the Mictlan (Aztec underworld) portals open wide. Distant, close and unrecognised relatives, arrive to pay respects, have dinner and have tequila shots for the memory of those who once lived. Jokes, stories, memories and occasional tears are mixed in a nocturnal alloy of joy, happiness and nostalgia.

Outside the necropolis, the celebration continues: the death parade.

In one of the spookiest yet most beautiful examples of cultural syncretism, Halloween merges with Dia de Muertos in the streets. Sugar-fuelled hordes of costumed youngsters swarm the avenues, stores, and anywhere offering sweets, candies or tacos. Alongside them, teenagers and adults join the procession with an overwhelming festive spirit, incredible costumes and a strong determination to walk beyond their limits. Catrinas and alebrijes, lloronas and charros negros, all fictional and legendary characters, reunited together to remind us that the last laugh is always the sweetest.

The new frontier: Overseas.

In latest years, as cultures spread, Dia de los Muertos has become a worldwide celebration. Since its recognition as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2008, this tradition has echoed in cities such as Los Angeles, Melbourne, Madrid, and, of course, London.

For the natives of the land of taco and for enthusiasts of amazing traditions and good food, there are some recommendations to celebrate Dia de los Muertos in London. Camden Market’s free festival leads the way with the giant skeleton parade, Mexican cultural stalls, workshops, face paintings and much more. Panaderia Don Julio (yes — like the Tequila brand) at Toklas bakery is another good option to try the mythical Pan de Muerto and take part in a paloma-making workshop. Likewise, clubs, bars and Mexican restaurants across the city prepare a themed night for this special occasion.

Don't miss ResLife's Dia de los Muertos celebration!

Bring your photo, pay your respects, and let them come… from beyond.