NEW ORLEANS(WGNO)– In Mexican and Central American cultures, November 1 and 2 are set aside to celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed on – hence the name Day of the Dead.
On All Hallows Eve, which is October 31, children decorate an altar with photos of their family or friends who have passed away, using food, candy, alcohol, water and sugar skulls to invite them back to visit.
In places such as Mexico City, a festival is held to let the deceased know that they are not forgotten.
“Dia de los muertos is something that is very traditional,” said Olga Dale, manager at Felipes Taqueria. “The dead is always celebrated, in our culture, once you pass we don’t see it as a sad thing, we celebrate it and your life. You’re in a better place on the other side. So the sugar skulls represent it being a joyous occasion and not depressing.”
All three Felipe’s locations will be hosting celebrations complete with altars and sugar skull face painting from 5 PM until 8 PM on Tuesday evening.
