Todos Santos (All Saints, also known as the Day of the Dead, especially in Mexico) is an important occasion in many countries in Latin America. People believe that the souls of their deceased loved ones return to earth on 1st November for 24 hours and make elaborate preparations for their arrival. In Bolivia these include making altars (called "mast'akus") in their houses with food (especially bread, fruit and biscuits) and drink to nourish the souls after their journey. Many of the bread loaves have a symbolic meaning, and the favourite foods of the deceased person are often included. The following day people go to the cemeteries (usually taking the food from the altars) and hold social events to say goodbye the the souls for another year. The traditions and events vary from country to country and region to region.
