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The Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is one of the most important celebrations in Mexico's festive calendar and typically takes place on 1 November (All Saint's Day) and 2 November (All Soul's Day).

Mexico's famous celebration of the dead is truly a sight to behold, as families and friends come together to remember their ancestors and the dead are given a chance to visit their loved ones.

Street festivals and parades are held in the honour of the deceased, while people give gifts, cook large amounts of food and have plenty to drink.

Many people also spend the days in cemeteries, and a traditional communion meal is taken during which time people consume the 'bread of the dead' to bring themselves luck.

The origins of the festival can be found in the pre-Hispanic past of Mexico, where native religions dedicated a whole month to worshipping the spirits of the dead. Originally sacrifices were made in July and August, but the Catholic Spanish colonisers moved the rituals and celebrations to coincide with Christian feast days.

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