In much of the Spanish speaking world, bout especially in Mexico, “La Dia de Los Muertos”, or “The Day of the Dead” is celebrated on October 31st and November 1st and 2nd. This is not a time of mourning but of celebration and ‘Calacas’ or skeletons are commonly displayed during the rituals to symbolize death and rebirth. Calacas are generally depicted as joyous rather than mournful figures. They are often shown wearing festive clothing, dancing, and playing musical instruments to indicate a happy afterlife. This draws on the Mexican belief that no dead soul likes to be thought of sadly, and that death should be a joyous occasion. This goes back to Aztec beliefs, one of the few traditions to remain after the Spanish conquest. I shot this image in Oaxaca, Mexico during one of these festivals. I felt it was a perfect and respectful follow-up to Blue’s posting of his father’s cremated remains, and the upcoming ceremony to scatter his dad’s ashes on the grave of Blue’s grandmother.