Common Misconceptions about The Day of the Dead El día de los muertos by May Herz http://www.inside-mexico.com/noes.htm

It is not the Mexican version of Halloween. Mexicans have celebrated the Day of the Dead since the year 1800 B.C.

It is not scary or morbid. There are no images of dead people, ghosts, witches, or the devil. Calaveras, or skeletons, are a modern artistic representation of the of the annual event

Posada, Jose Guadalupe Calavera depicting contemporary newspapers as skeleton cyclists c. 1889-1895 Type metal engraving

It is not a cult. This ritual has nothing to do with cults. It is a Catholic Christian ritual intermixed with indigenous culture. For many, going to mass is an essential aspect of this celebration.

It doesn’t honor death or dying, but remembers the life and love of dead relatives. If offers the opportunity to reflect upon life, heritage, ancestors, and the meaning and purpose of human existence.

Altars or ofrendas are not worshipped. Ofrendas offer love and remember departed family members as they were in life and family. Memory and life comingle.

It is not a sad ritual. It’s a day of happiness and remembering loved ones. It is not a party. When in the graveyard, people assume an introspective attitude. There is love without grief.

It is about Love not Fear

It is not a careless or fearless confrontation of death. It is a moment to reflect upon one’s life and the cycle of life and death.

It is not a “strange” ritual. It is very similar to going to a grave and leaving flowers, stuffed animals, flags, or lighting a candle.