How Do You Throw A Dia De Los Muertos Party?
Most often observed in Latin countries-especially Mexico, Brazil and the Philippines-Dia de Los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) is a joyous celebration of deceased ancestors. Curiously enough, this holiday originated with the ancient Aztecs in the first millennium A.D. The Day of the Dead is actually celebrated on 2 days in a row-Nov. 1 (All Saints’ Day on the Christian calendar) and Nov. 2 (All Souls’ Day). Stock up on “ofrendas”-traditional offerings given to the souls of the deceased. In Latin countries, ofrendas include items a departed soul can use to “clean up” after their long journey from the afterlife. So mix in some small bars of hotel soap and a few washcloths with an assortment of hard candy. Set up an altar on which guests can place their ofrendas. This doesn’t have to be a fancy affair-a small table with one or two shelves or boxes piled on top will do just fine. If you’re genuinely observing the memory of a departed loved one, place pictures of this person around the altar
