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October 27, 2025 13 mins

This episode dives deep into the real origins of Día de Muertos (or do you call it Dia de los Muertos?), The Day Of the Dead—from the ancient Mexica (Aztec) festivals of Miccailhuitontli and Huey Miccailhuitl, to the Spanish Catholic traditions that blended with them centuries later, creating a vibrant celebration that honors the dead with love, not fear and one of the most important celebrations in Mexican culture.

But isn't it just Mexican Halloween?

#mexico culture

You’ll discover: How Día de Muertos and Halloween evolved from completely different worlds.The true meaning behind the ofrenda (altar) — every flower, candle, and photograph has a purpose.The story of Mictēcacihuātl, the Mexica Lady of the Dead, who guided souls through Mictlán. How José Guadalupe Posada and Diego Rivera transformed a satirical drawing into La Catrina, Mexico’s timeless symbol of life and death.The fascinating history of Pan de Muerto and Sugar Skulls, from Spanish All Saints’ breads to Mexico’s artistry in sugar and spirit.And yes… how James Bond’s “Spectre” changed Día de Muertos forever.

🌎 A Journey Through Tradition From the candlelit lakes of Janitzio to the Maya Hanal Pixán of Yucatán, from the bustling Catrina Parade of Mexico City to quiet family altars in small towns — every region of Mexico celebrates differently.

But each shares one truth: every life deserves to be remembered. 💬 Join the ConversationWhat’s on your ofrenda this year? Who are you honoring — a parent, a child, a friend, even a beloved pet?Share your story in the comments — it’s how these traditions stay alive.

🛍️ Support the ChannelFor Día de Muertos fans and supporters of The Mysteries of Latin America, explore the limited collection of T-shirts, hats, and bags inspired by this episode:

🛒 El Mercadito MOLA on Spring https://mola-merch.creator-spring.com/

🎧 Want to go deeper? Discover the books and gear I use to make these videos and my voiceover work on my Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/themysteriesoflatinamericawithandrewcolon?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_N39WFB3YB9B5XW6THWY4

🎙️ Hire My Voice or CollaborateLooking for a bilingual voice for your next documentary, training video, or commercial?

🎤 Visit my site: https://www.andycancun.com/

📧 Contact: 📧 Email: andy@andycancun.com

 

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andycolonvo

🔔 Stay ConnectedIf you love stories that blend myth, history, and mystery from across Latin America, don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and tap the bell so you never miss an episode.

Watch more here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-mmWrV59t4X7wJClrm58k

 

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