The time when other countries prepare for Halloween is also the time when Filipinos prepare for Undas. It is a yearly tradition that is meant to honor the dearly departed and offer prayers for the repose of their souls. But aside from that, it is also a time for celebration. Most undas gatherings turn into reunions complete with food and merrymaking.
Whether you plan to observe undas peacefully or want to join the celebrations that have also become a part of the tradition, it’s good to know the essentials that can complete your all souls day celebration.
6 Undas Essentials You Might Need this All Souls Day
1. Flowers
As undas is considered a special occasion to commemorate the dead, you shouldn’t forget to order a flower arrangement for a dearly departed. Flowers are offered to the dead as a sign of respect and love for the person who passed on. All souls day flowers symbolize that they are still remembered and cared for even in death.
2. Candles
The lighting of candles on tombs or on altars is a tradition that intends to pay tribute to a loved one who passed away. It is a ritual that has been passed from one generation to the next and has long been a part of Filipino culture. A lighted candle symbolizes the memory of a dearly departed that lives on and burns bright.
3. Food
Food is one of the things that bring people together whether on ordinary days or on special occasions. One of the all souls day traditions in the Philippines that many families follow is to offer food, also known as atang, for the dead during this time of year. But aside from the atang, food for sharing and celebration is also brought to cemeteries. The family of the departed shares the food with relatives and friends while they stay in the cemetery. Food not only serves as a meal for those who visited but it also contributes in strengthening and uniting the family.
4. Cleaning Supplies
All souls day is also spent not only visiting a loved one who passed on. It is also the perfect time to clean the tomb, especially for those who did not hire people to clean and maintain the tomb regularly. Basic cleaning supplies include soap, bleach, broomstick, gardening scissors, and others. These are used to cut the grass that may have already grown and clean the tomb or tombstone that may have already acquired dirt or unwanted markings.
5. Health & Safety Essentials
The past two years have been different than the previous ones because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, people have regained the freedom to celebrate undas in cemeteries again. However, it is still important to proceed with care. Cemeteries can get overly crowded during all souls day. Social distancing may not be strictly observed too. To be safe, make sure to bring basic health and safety essentials such as alcohol, wipes, and face masks. As they say, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. As always, it’s better to stay safe than sorry!
6. Prayers
No matter how undas traditions have evolved, one thing remains essential–prayers. Take the time to offer a prayer for a dearly departed. Pray for the repose of their soul, recite the rosary and the litany of the dead, or whisper personal prayers to send a message to a loved one. Prayers preserve the sanctity of the occasion and give greater meaning to this tradition.
ALSO READ: The Best Flower Arrangement Fillers that Make Bouquets More Beautiful
All set for undas? Don’t forget the all souls day essentials that will give greater meaning to the celebration. If you haven’t ordered flowers for the dead at this time, it’s not yet too late. Beat the rush by sending your orders now to Flower Patch. Check out our products including casket sprays, standing flower arrangements, and meaningful flower bouquets that are suited for undas.
