From midnight on October 31 through November 2, this celebration of souls highlights the strength of family, the honoring of ancestors, and the continuance of life. The Day of the Dead is celebrated with great joy as the living reconnect with loved ones lost through death. It is an expression of the belief that death is not the end of life but rather the continuation of life in the afterworld. During the holiday, the spirits of the deceased are invited back to enjoy the comforts of their earthly life. Festivities surrounding the Day of the Dead vary from solemn religious celebrations to events with exuberant party atmospheres – each family and community has different and unique customs.