Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

Over the years, I’ve been photographing the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) an even not to be confused with Halloween. Its roots go back to ancient Aztec rituals & it has been celebrated in San Francisco’s Mission district since the early 70s with a night parade of music, dancing, painted faces & food. This celebration is a syncretic mix of Latin American indigenous practices & Catholic spiritual tradition. The celebration acknowledges that we still have a relationship with our ancestors & loved ones who are dead. It’s also a reminder that death isn’t something to be afraid of, but instead be seen as a natural cycle of life Each year, it starts on the evening of every November 2nd with a night parade. People everywhere dress up & paint their faces in the tradition of the Dia de los Muertos. The painted white face represents spirit, hope & purity.