To all my loved ones up above.

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The Aztecs built a great empire which is now known as Mexico. The Ancient Aztec believed in the solar calendar which is known as the Sun Calendar. Aztecs worshiped a teotl, or God named Tonatiuh. It was believed that he was the giver of life, and died each evening to create night time. Aztecs believe that people die to make room for new life but life itself does not end at death. Life continues was believed by the Aztecs. Festivals for the dead were held in the ninth and tenth month throughout the year the Sun Calendar.

On October 31st through November 2nd, families come together to fix their loved ones tombstones for the Dias de Los Muertos. Once night falls families light a candle for each person who has passed to a better life. Each candle is lit followed by the name of the person who has passed. Once their candles are lit families converse with their loved ones about the pass, present and future.

One family tradition is to build an ofrenda, or alter at the loved ones house for those who have passed to a better life. Families build an ofrenda, or alter out of favorite foods, drinks, pictures, flowers, and at times clothing that once was enjoyed by that person. By providing a ofrenda, it demonstrates respect and love for the dead but expresses unconditional love until they are reunited one day in the after life.

Cempasuchitl, or Marigolds are known as the flowers of the dead. They are used in varies ways for el Dia de Los Muertos. Some families spread them on their loved one graves, bundled into vases, and form door arches. The vibrant yellow-orange color flowers reminded the Ancient Aztecs of the Sun which is used for these special days.