Day of the Dead celebrations will soon kick off in Mexico, with millions of revelers taking to the streets to honor their lost loved ones. People often construct their own private altars, where they honor the dead with a number of different gifts. Sugar skulls and marigolds are among the offerings given up, as well as the favorite food and drinks of the departed. Skull masks are both worn and displayed.
As the years have gone by, the designs have become even more intricate and extravagant. Not long ago, the first ever Day of the Dead parade took place in Mexico’s capital and it’s believed that this addition to the celebration was inspired by a scene from the James Bond film, Specter.
The colorful festival is just around the corner and will take place from Tuesday October 31 and will continue throughout November 1 and 2. Though somewhat like Halloween that goes on in the USA at about the same time, Day of the Dead has more to do with family, traditions and religion. The mask shown above is made of carved wood and most likely would have been displayed a the home alter or at the cemetery. Of course, it could also be worn.
