el día de los muertos

This week has been the week of "Día de los Muertos," or "Day of the Dead." Families welcome members of the community to view their offerings for family members who died in the past year. Common items include flowers, tissue paper, salt, water, pan de muertos (bread), tequila, beer, and anything else that the deceased person enjoyed during their lives.

It's a national holiday here, and despite it's somewhat morbid theme, it is hardly considered sad. People believe the offerings allow the deceased to return for the night to be with their families. Visitors bring candles in exchange for pan de muertos, tamales, tea, cigarettes and other refreshments.