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Los Finados, cultural belief in life after death

For many of our North American friends, October is synonymous with the arrival of fall, the excitement of costumes for the big Halloween party, and a fun night of trick-or-treating. However, for the Mestizo community in northern and western Belize, October is when we come together for the traditional celebration of ‘Los Finados.’ This celebration honors loved ones who have departed to the other world and is a time of unity and shared remembrance.

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Our traditions of honoring the dearly departed

While Halloween (a holiday that marks the day before the Western Christian feast of All Saints, or All Hallows, and initiates the season of Allhallowtide) may be celebrated worldwide on October 31st where many dress in spooky costumes and give out candy, it also holds significant traditions for local cultures. October 31st is part of the traditional el Dia de Los Muertos or Los Finados. Prominently celebrated in Mexico, the Maya or Mestizo of Belize also celebrate October 31st as the day to celebrate the cycle of life and death. On this day, families observing this tradition set up alters to honor their ancestors, both those remembered and those long forgotten. Many believe the tradition dates to the ancient Maya, who believed there is life after death. Alters are lit up with candles, decorated with flowers, and offerings foods and drinks.

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