In the America's with David Yetman

Day of the Dead: A Mexican Celebration

Many Native American groups in pre-Conquest Mexico celebrated one day each year when their deceased ancestors would return to visit them—El Día de los Muertos. This ancient tradition has become the state of Oaxaca’s most important celebration. Parades, home altars, and gaily-decorated graves welcome back the dead. The custom has spread throughout Mexico and even to Los Angeles and Tucson.

Day of the Dead: A Mexican Celebration

26m 46s

Many Native American groups in pre-Conquest Mexico celebrated one day each year when their deceased ancestors would return to visit them—El Día de los Muertos. This ancient tradition has become the state of Oaxaca’s most important celebration. Parades, home altars, and gaily-decorated graves welcome back the dead. The custom has spread throughout Mexico and even to Los Angeles and Tucson.

WETA Passport

Stream tens of thousands of hours of your PBS and local favorites with WETA Passport whenever and wherever you want. Catch up on a single episode or binge-watch full seasons before they air on TV.