The month of October in the United States reminds me of spooky autumnal events such as pumpkin picking, spiderwebs, leaves falling and, of course, dressing up in costumes for Halloween. Here in the Philippines, families celebrate the eve of All Saints' Day on October 31st. The holiday ritual is to spend the weekend in a cemetery. Halloween is recognized as a Western tradition and is not celebrated here.
In the Philippines, the eve of All Saints' Day on October 31st, and the following two days of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day on November 1st and 2nd, are celebrated in a cemetery. Like the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in Mexico, these days honor loved ones who have died. Families spend time gathering in cemeteries with extended family to share meals and happy memories about their departed loved ones.
Spanish history has a big influence on Philippine culture which is evident in the religious beliefs of most of the people here, who are practicing Catholics. All Saints' Day is celebrated by people of Catholic faith all over the world. Catholics celebrate this holiday by going to church and praying for their deceased loved ones.
