Days of the dead
Since 1983 we have been one of the largest importers of Mexican Days of the Dead merchandise to the US (at a wholesale and retail level). We take pride in explaining the traditions and symbols of this tradition. Our life’s work in this field has contributed to the dissemination and increased popularity of “Dias de los Muertos.” The Days of the Dead is a festive celebration of life.
It is a time to remember those who have gone before us, thank them for enriching our lives, and for contemplating our own mortality, both with reverence and humor. Here at Back from Tomboctou, The Days of the Dead Season is a special time. We hold workshops on how to make and decorate sugar skulls used for offerings and décor during this time, decorate skulls and create ofrendas. Come see us or check out our on- line offering of everything you need for Days of the Dead.
There are several elements that tradition says need to be included: A picture of the person or persons we are memorializing. In the offering or the altar to the deceased, the four main elements of nature – earth, wind, water, and fire – should be included. The Earth is represented by crop. They believe the souls are fed by the aroma of the harvest. This includes foods and beverages that the person memorialized liked in life. Wind is represented by a moving object as swift as the wind.
Tissue paper is commonly used to represent the wind. Papel picado or cut out paper banners. Water is placed in a container for the soul to quench its thirst after its long journey to reach the altar. Fire is represented by a wax candle. Each soul is represented by a little candle, and an extra one is placed for the forgotten soul. Copal incense is a resin whose sacred smoke carries messages to the spirit world. The traditional flower used Cempazutchitl or Marigolds We carry dried petals Sugar Skull is a calavera made of candied sugar (A must in an ofrenda). Skeletons (Calaveras) .It is traditional to put Calaveras having fun representing things that the memorialized enjoyed when alive. The skeletons for Days of the dead are neve scary as in Halloween. Join the sweet fun celebrating the life of those you want to honor.
