All Saints’ Day and Day of the Dead celebration in Peru

On November 1 and 2 - All Saints’ Day (Día de Todos los Santos Vivos) and All Souls’ Day (Day of the Dead - Día de los Difuntos) - Peruvians celebrate the Living and the Dead with a mixture of ancient indigenous traditions and Christians elements brought to Peru by the Spanish conquerors.

As in numerous other Latin American countries after mass Peruvians head to the cemeteries for a lively celebration colorfully decorating the gravesite of deceased loved ones and bringing small gifts and offerings such as flowers, sweets, food, alcohol and special bread.

So, expect colorful celebrations with musicians and dancers offering to perform in honor of the deceased in exchange for a small tip, street vendors and an overall festive atmosphere with lots of traditional food and beverages on both days at Peruvian cemeteries.