El día de los muertos, on November 2, is a uniquely Mexican take on what the religious calendar calls All Saints Day.

A Day of the Dead skeleton holding up traditional cut-paper banners.A collection of papel picada (cut-paper) featuring grinning skeletons that I bought the first time I encountered the event.  These ancient photos are from 1976 – the original tissue paper cut-outs have long since disappeared. They use plastic nowadays, not so good for the environment, but they last longer. These bright aqua banners celebrate the Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta, MexicoThese bright little celebrations of colour appear at other festivals, although my favourite ones are those that honour the Day of the Dead.

More about the Day of the Dead.

• The Happiest Best-Dressed Skeletons Around.
• Skulls for the Day of the Dead

More about travelling in Mexico.