Stunning pics capture Mexico's 'Day of the Dead' preparations where thousands dress up as the skelet

STUNNING pictures have captured celebrations for the upcoming 'Día de Muertos', or Day of the Dead, in Mexico City.

During the holiday, which falls on November 1st and 2nd, families and friends honour those close to them who have died.

Observers across Mexico - as well as in other Central American countries and the United States - don intricate face paint which resembles a skull - based on 'La Calavera Catrina', or 'the elegant skull', a drawing by famous Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada.

The early 20th century sketch of a female skeleton wearing an elaborate hat was intended to mock Mexicans who rejected their heritage in favour of European culture.

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