There are even special meals that are prepared just once a year for this day, such as bread of the dead and a large tamal called zacahuíl that is wrapped in banana leaves. Sugar skulls that are beautifully decorated in bright colors are also a Day of the Dead treat.
Families usually pray for their loved ones and light a candle for each of their relatives that have passed on. There are also special Masses and prayers that take place during this time. Then, on the afternoon of November 2nd, festivities take place at the cemetery where people clean tombs, listen to music and even share a meal with their loved ones.
Day of the Dead is a wonderful and spirtual tradition that helps people cope with the loss of loved ones, as well as a time to share stories and memories of people that made an impact on their lives. This film put together by Film School Shorts sums does a great job describing the Day of the Dead tradition:
