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Halloween may be over, but that doesn’t mean the ghostly celebrations are completely finished. In fact, they’re just getting started in Mexico.

The end of Halloween marks the start of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, in Mexican culture. As the clock strikes midnight on Halloween, the souls of the departed are said to be freed to return to their loved ones through November 2. Rather than mourn the death of their loved ones, Mexican culture calls for a celebration of life for those who have passed. Traditionally, Mexicans welcome the souls of their dead loved ones with altars decorated with sugar skulls, artsy skeletons, candles, flowers, food and drinks. Dia de los Muertos is also known for the intricate mask-like skull makeup that accompanies the holiday.

Take a closer look at this traditional Mexican holiday with this photo tour of the Day of the Dead.

(Main image: Fotos_Gratis)

About the author

Marissa WillmanMarissa Willman earned a bachelor's degree in journalism before downsizing her life into two suitcases for a teaching gig in South Korea. Seoul was her home base for two years of wanderlusting throughout six countries in Asia. In 2011, Marissa swapped teaching for travel writing and now calls Southern California home.

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