Halloween is a holiday that many Americans celebrate every year on Oct. 31. Aside from the spooky and festive holiday, countries around the world celebrate holidays similar to Halloween, but with a more significant meaning.

One of these holidays includes Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, which is celebrated mainly in Mexico. There are also many people who celebrate in the U.S. every year.

“I like to celebrate Day of the Dead because it shows respect for my family members who have passed away and hopefully I will soon be able to celebrate it in Mexico,” senior Jose Granados said.

Day of the Dead is celebrated on November 1 and 2, it is celebrated throughout Mexico and by people with Mexican ancestry living in other places. On the first day, families honor deceased children and infants, and on the second day, they honor deceased adults.

“In Mexico it’s celebrated by going to the gravesites of loved ones and decorating graves with candles, flowers, pan de muerto (bread of the dead), sugar skulls, and the favorite foods of our loved ones,” junior Rocio Marquez said.

During the holiday, along with the family gatherings to pray for their deceased loved ones. Many people that celebrate the holiday make heavily decorated altars, also called ofrendas, for their loved ones filled with candles, their favorite foods, flowers and other items.   

“I wish I could participate in Day of the Dead because I would like to honor and connect with my dead family members,” said junior Ajah Taylor.

Similar to this holiday, Halloween occurs during the liturgical year which is dedicated to remembering the dead. Unlike Day of the Dead, Halloween is not used for remembering loved ones, but dressing up in spooky costumes and trick-or-treating.