The Mexican Day of the Dead(Dia De Muertos) tradition is observed on from October 31 to November 2nd and it is a time of honoring departed loved ones. It has roots in Aztec beliefs that say that the souls of departed loved ones can return for a brief time.
Click here to read more about Day of the Dead traditions and origins.
Dia de Los Muerto at Disney World
Certain elements have been incorporated into the "Gran Fiesta Tour with the Three Amigos" ride in the Mexico pavilion at Epcot. Skeletons and skull masks (called calacas) are a a recognizable part of modern Day of the Dead celebrations. (Did you notice the Donald Duck pinata under the arch, in the background of the picture below?)
Do you see the Donald Duck banner? This is a Disney-fied version of a folk art called Papel Picado, which means punched or perforated paper, and are usually made by punching or cutting designs into tissue paper, using small chisels. They are used to decorate a lot of events but skeletons and the color pink are a common theme in banners used in Day of the Dead altars.
Dia de Los Muerto at Disneyland
From September 15 to November 2, 2017, the Plaza de la Familia at Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure (Disneyland) is inspired Dia de los Muertos and the movie "CoCo" and will feature storytellers, songs from the movie, Folklorico dances and Mariachi Divas. Authentic Mariachi music will be presented at the Paradise Gardens Bandstand along with delicious Mexican foods available for purchase. Click here for more information
In Disneyland park, guests can head over to Frontierland from September 15 to November 2, 2017 to join the festivities. Zocalo Park will have a musical trio of iconic calacas (skeleton figurines), brightly colored flowers and Calaveras-style face painting. You can enjoy dtasty mexican food at Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante.
