Tanishk Juneja
Mexican children celebrate the tradition of trick-or-treating on October 31st. This celebration also serves as a primer for another commemoration, el Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), on November 1st or 2nd. It is believed that the gates of heaven open during that time, allowing the deceased loved ones to reunite with their still family.
On November 1st, Italians celebrate Ognissanti, or all saints, with deep religious undertones. This holiday commemorates all Christian martyrs, and its history dates back to the fourth century. Ognissanti is one of the most important religious festivals for Italians.
Halloween is still a new concept in Japan. However, they try to adopt the Western concept and add their touch. Other Japanese holidays value the decrease, including Obon. Trick-or-treating isn’t a popular activity the Japanese tend to follow.
Guatemalans honour the dead during ‘Barriletes Gigantes’, aka giant kites, during the first week of November. In this celebration, the kites are hand-painted and flown over the graves of loved ones. The kite is said to act as a bridge between the living and the dead.
Guatemalans honour the dead during ‘Barriletes Gigantes’, aka giant kites, during the first week of November. In this celebration, the kites are hand-painted and flown over the graves of loved ones. The kite is said to act as a bridge between the living and the dead.