November 1st and 2nd are especially important dates because the entire community takes part in the celebrations. November 1st is known as the festival of the “little deceased,” dedicated to children who have passed away and are often called “little angels”. With the arrival of European evangelizers, it was believed that baptized children went straight to heaven when they died, becoming “little angels.” The following day, November 2nd, is devoted to honoring deceased adults, known as “grown-up” or “elder” souls.

Before the Europeans arrived, the agricultural Nahua communities of central Mexico worshipped Tláloc, the rain god. They believed that when a child died, they became a “tlaloque,” a spirit who would send precious rain to the cornfields. This is one reason why the deaths of children are celebrated. For example, Coconetla Mountain, west of Mexico City, is named for its meaning: “place of the water children.”

On October 31st, families prepare baskets, known as «tenates», to offer to the souls of departed children. These are set near the family altar, alongside images of the saints. The baskets are filled with bread, fruit, corn, sweet pastries, and white candles, as well as pots and jars containing milk, atole, and chocolate. The «tenates» are arranged in a row, leaving the center of the table clear for copal incense, candles, a glass of water, scattered fruit, and marigold flowers (Cempoalxóchitl). In some towns, there is a belief that during their visit, the souls of children travel from the cemetery back to their former homes, guided by the candles their families have placed on the home altars, lighting their way back to the afterlife.