Today is All Souls Day which is part of the the Day of the Dead holidays in Mexico. Forty years ago we traveled to Mexico to explore the Aztec and Mayan ruins and experience the country. We weren’t aware of the Day of the Dead when we made our arrangements and were quite surprised to suddenly see the many displays of gruesome foods in store front windows: sugar skulls, chocolate coffins, and “Bread of the Dead”, all displayed for customers in the stores of Mexico City.
Eventually we found out what it was all about. On this weekend it is customary for families to pack up a “picnic” lunch and go to the graves of their ancestors. There they eat their meal among the tombstones and talk to their deceased family members. Marigolds seem to be the flower of choice for the occasion.
It all seemed a bit strange to us, but I guess foreigners viewing our “Halloween” have a similar feelings. Below are some old photos of what we saw relating to the Day of the Dead.
Take a look at my photo-realistic paintings: davidmarchant2.ca
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