A tradition steeped in history that stretches deep into Mexico’s past, Día de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) is a colorful and joyous celebration of the lives of loved ones who have died. It traditionally begins on October 31 and culminates on November 2, All Souls’ Day. With over 30 million Mexican Americans in the United States, plus another 11 million immigrants from Mexico, the custom has been kept alive by Mexican Catholic faithful across the country.