Día de los Muertos

Macro Mondays 2.0: Traditions

Día de los Muertos , or "Day if the Dead" is a tradition often celebrated on 1 Nov. as a day to remember children who have passed away, and on 2 Nov. to honor adults. This holiday originated in ancient Mesoamerica (Mexico and northern Central America) where indigenous groups, including Aztec, Maya and Toltec, had specific times when they commemorated their loved ones who had passed away. The holiday is celebrated in present day Mexico and in the United States among Mexican immigrants.

Calaveritas de azucar, or sugar skulls similar to the plaster skull shown in the photo, along with toys, are left on altars for children who have passed. The skull is used not as morbid symbol but rather as a whimsical reminder of the cyclicality of life, which is why they are brightly decorated.

For a more complete description:
insider.si.edu/2016/10/5-facts-dia-de-los-muertos-day-dead