There are only a handful of celebrations from around the world that can transcend borders and capture your attention and can change your view of death or how we honor our loved ones who have passed on. No other celebration can do this except Mexico’s own Dia de los Muertos (Day of The Dead).

Dia de los Muertos is a tradition that has been celebrated for more than 3,000 years. Those who have passed on can come back and once again reconnect with the living for one day.

Families decorate tombs and create alters for their dearly departed. The flower of the dead, also known as Cempasuchil, and thousands of candles guide the dead to the world of the living.

Families gather to remember the departed and music can be heard for miles. Children play and food is shared throughout the entire night.

According to Mexican folklore, a person has three true deaths: (1) the day they take their last breath, (2) the day they are buried six feet under, and (3) the day they are forgotten forever.

It is because of the last one that Dia de los Muertos is so important. If you are never forgotten then you are not truly dead.

One day we will all take our last breath but as long as our loved ones remember us and keep us in their hearts than we too will live forever.

( In 2008 UNESCO listed Dia De Los Muertos Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity)