On this day, it is tradition for families to visit the graves of loved ones, usually in the evening when it is dark. From my apartment on November 2nd, I could see that the cemetery in my neighborhood was filled with people honoring their relatives. The whole area was glowing from hundreds of candles placed on the graves, creating a warm and peaceful atmosphere. Families bring fresh flowers, wreaths, and sometimes food to leave as offerings. Some people also set an extra plate at the dinner table to remember those who have passed away. It is common to bake a special sweet bread called kosti svatých (which means “bones of the saints”), and a few crumbs are sometimes left on the windowsill for visiting souls. These small actions show care, love, and respect for those who are no longer here.
My teacher taught my class that Dušičky is a day dedicated to the dearly departed, in memory of loved ones who have passed. It allows people to pay respect to their relatives and remember the impact that they had on their lives. Families often visit the graves together, share stories about those who have died, and reflect on their memories. This helps keep their family history and traditions alive. While this holiday may seem sad or even a little scary, to the Czech people, it is a calm and meaningful day focused on peace, family, and remembrance.
