Fused with the Catholic festivals of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day, the Day of the Dead is one of the most deep-rooted traditions in Mexico, celebrated by millions of people from Mayan Indians in the tropical south to urban professionals in Mexico City.
Drawing on beliefs that the dead can return from the underworld, the celebrations officially begin on November 1 with the Day of the Innocents to honour departed children and ends with the Day of the Dead on November 2 for adults.
As tradition goes, families at home put up altars dedicated to loved ones who have passed. They are decorated with flowers as well as objects such as sweets and tequila.
More No Comment
More than 400 migrants rescued by Doctors Without Borders
American NATO paratroopers undergo live fire training in Norway
A thick layer of orange dust covers Baghdad
A thousand candles lit up in Bangkok to mark Buddha's birthday
Final preparations underway for 75th Cannes Film Festival
Colombia: Bari indigenous people protest against violence
France: parade marks the opening of "Utopia" festival in Lille
Under the skin: Ukrainians embrace tattoos amid patriotic outpouring
Singapore temple offers pet blessings for Buddhist festival
Thousands expected to rally across US for abortion rights
World's longest suspension bridge opens in Czech Rep
Extinction Rebellion activists target Monsanto offices in Buenos Aires
No Comment videos of the week
Israeli riot police at journalist's funeral procession
Hundreds of amateur musicians rock out ahead of Paris concert