Day of the Dead

Today was "Dia de los muertos", which means Day of the dead in Spanish.  This day is where most Nicas go and visit the cemetery, taking flowers to put on family members' graves and remembering those they've lost.  The vendors line the streets selling flowers, fresh and faux.  They usually don't do anything in the house, just a trip to the cemetery and usually the families prepare or purchase a large floral arrangement for the day, the bigger the better.  I really think it's almost a competition to use the biggest and best design, and of course fresh flowers shows you have more money, but on the other hand, the faux flowers last longer...  For me, faux flowers have always looked somewhat tacky, but they're very popular here, mainly because fresh flowers are very expensive and hard to come by--there's only one place in Boaco that sells fresh flowers.

The most important part is that they are honoring their loved ones who have passed away.  Schools and all public/government offices are closed this day as well.  I was asked if we have this day in the US and I said no, but a lot of people visit the cemeteries on birthdays and/or anniversaries of those who passed away (and Veteran's Day).  It is interesting though to have a specific day that everyone goes. 

In Mexico, the tradition is a little different, and more celebrated.  They usually cook special food and leave out a dish for the family members who passed away.  They also make/sell/buy candies and baked goods with skeletons on them and such (Google it--some of the art is actually kinda creepy).  I'm surprised Nicas don't get into the holiday a little more, but they do have La Purisima in December, celebrating the Virgin Mary, and that's a huge celebration here that lasts anywhere from 1 week to 1 month in some places!