As always, as I write, keep in mind that I write according to my understanding and experience, accompanied by some light but reputable internet searching.
I am grateful for Day of the Dead as celebrated in Mexican culture because, in my perspective, it is a refreshing approach to the Halloween season. I express gratitude for it now because for afternoon breaks at work, we're watching the animated film, The Book of Life, as a way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
Now, I am aware that Cinco de Mayo is really more of an American holiday celebrating Mexican culture in general, but most of my small team of editors happen to be white Americans, so happy Cinco de Mayo! Hurrah for Mexico! (no sarcasm or belittlement intended)
Anyway, in America, Halloween is a fun holiday that involves costumes, candy, parties, and haunted houses (for those who like that sort of thing). But in Mexico, that same time of year is a day of honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed on. It is also incredibly colorful, and it translates very well on an animated film like The Book of Life. As I understand it, Day of the Dead is not spooky at all. Everything about it seems to be overly colorful, festive, and positive. There is nothing creepy about it, and I find that to be a very refreshing interpretation of the Halloween season.
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