Stock Photo - A private altar honoring a deceased person at Los Angeles´ Pueblo in honor of the Day of the Dead. Note skeleton kneeling in prayer at left. The Day of the Dead D’a de los Muertos in Spanish is a holiday celebrated mainly in Mexico and by people of Mexican heritage living in the United States and Canada. The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and relatives who have died. The celebration occurs on the 1st and 2nd of November, in connection with the Catholic holy days of All Saints´ Day and All Souls´ Day. Many people believe that during the Day of the Dead, it is easier for the souls of the departed to visit the living. People build private altars containing the favorite foods and beverages, and photos and memorabilia, of the departed.