Celebrating the Spirits

November 1st marks the start of the Day of the Dead celebration. During this holiday, families with Mexican heritage traditionally observe by creating small altars with photos of their departed loved ones, accompanied by some of their favorite foods and drinks enjoyed during their lives. The altars are constructed to encourage visits by departed souls, celebrate their time on earth, and receive their spiritual support for the answering of prayers.

The 2017 Disney movie Coco exposed millions more Americans to Day of the Dead's rich history and traditions. Another tradition is to bake pan de muerto, a variation on sweetbread, which is enjoyed by the living, with some left over for spirits.