Different societies have long differentiated themselves by celebrating otherwise bizarre concepts. Such an example can be found in Mexico, where Mexicans celebrate dead relatives/friends. This holiday repeats yearly on November 1-2, and is known as Día de los Muertos (translating to 'day of the dead'). On these days, families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drink and celebration.

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The holiday spans 2 days due to an interesting, underlying belief. The belief claims that Heaven's gates open for 'angelitos' (translating to 'little angels'), which constitute children and infants, on the first of November. Conversely, the belief states that on the second of November, Heaven's gates open for adults. Accordingly, different Mexican families celebrate on different dates.

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The origins of this tradition can be traced back to ancient Aztec beliefs, whereby Aztecs believed that their dead would face a treacherous journey before reaching their rest place. They would, therefore, provide food, tools, and aid to their dead in yearly ceremonies. This tradition would evolve into the practices seen today, where families celebrate their dead with altars, food and music.

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On Día de los Muertos, it is believed that the border between the spirit world and the real world dissolves. During this brief period, dead souls join Mexican families to feast, drink, and dance with their loved ones. In turn, families treat them as guests, decorating their ofrendas, and leaving their favorite foods.

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There are numerous symbols spread throughout the celebrations of Día de los Muertos. Most commonly, calacas (skeletons) and calaveras (skulls) are drawn on desserts, printed on t-shirts, and painted on canvases. Moreover, certain other elements have become synonymous with the celebration. Of these, 'La Calavera Catrina' (translating to 'the elegant skull' is a wide-spread artwork associated with the celebration. Similarly, Pan de muerto, a type of sweetened bread, is known to be prepared in weeks leading up to the ceremony.