SeeCalifornia.com

While the majority of municipalities in California sponsor Halloween festivals, trick or treating, trunk or treating or pumpkin plunges, some cities and towns celebrate Dia de Los Muertos or Day of the Dead.  Two holidays are held a mere day apart and both involve costumes, face paint, skeletons & skulls, so it’s easy to be confused about them.

• Day of the Dead ( Dia de los Muertos) is a Mexican holiday honoring loved ones who have passed away. The holiday takes place on November 1 in connection with the Catholic holiday of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (November 2). Day of the Dead approaches death as a natural occurence filled with opportunities to reflect and honor deceased loved ones through mementos placed on constructed altars.
• Halloween on October 31 traditionally celebrated All Hallows’ Day, remembering the dead, including saints (hallows). Contemporary Halloween celebrations include scary mazes, haunted houses, trick or treat candy gathering and parties. The focus is on fun.