Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a vibrant celebration on November 1st and 2nd observed in Mexico and by Mexican-American communities in the United States. It is a time when families and communities come together to honor and remember their loved ones who have passed away. The belief is that during this time, the souls of the departed return to visit their families. Families create altars or ofrendas adorned with colorful decorations, photographs, favorite foods, and marigold flowers to welcome and guide the spirits. People also visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves, and they may hold vigils, share stories, and offer prayers and offerings for the departed.