All Saints’ Day in Peru

All Saints' Day

When one is a child, this date goes somewhat unnoticed: one day before, on October 31st, Halloween, also known as the Night of Witches, is celebrated so the youngest members of the family dress up as their favorite characters to go out in search of free candies, rewarding the effort of their costumes. Some others also celebrate, on the last day of October, the Creole Song Day, where Peruvian identity is combined with celebration and dance.

However, a change in priorities occur when you feel the absence of that loved one. Thus, the transition from October to November will take on a different meaning. Every November 1st, All Saints' Day is celebrated, both in Peru and in the Catholic countries of Latin America and the entire world. Initially, it was a commemoration linked to the literal meaning of the name of this celebration, but it evolved over time.

A change in the path

This holiday, originally celebrated by members of the Catholic Church, was meant to pay respect to the souls of deceased individuals who had been beatified. That is why it is called All Saints' Day: homage was paid to the blessed and canonized saints who enjoy eternal life alongside their creator. However, over the years, the meaning of this celebration changed to also honor ordinary people who are no longer alive on Earth.

Almudena Museum Cemetery, located in Cusco. Credit: Enrique Nordt / PromPerú.

It was no longer necessary to dedicate your life to God, as the blessed and saints did, in order to receive the honor of being remembered on the first day of November. The reason for this unification? The desire to show equal respect to those who are living eternal life in the presence of their creator.

How is it celebrated in Peru?

The churches are filled with believers who want to pray for their saints, blessed individuals, and loved ones. On some occasions, during this date, belongings of the saints are exhibited. However, the most common activity on November 1st is visiting cemeteries. Families gather to visit their deceased relatives and bring offerings to the graveyards. These offerings typically include a bouquet of flowers, written letters, and balloons to adorn their tombstones.

Known as All Saints' Day, Day of the Dead, Day of the Faithful Departed, Samhain, Allhallowtide, or All Saints' Eve around the world, the goal remains the same: to commemorate the memory of those who are no longer with us.