Rituals for the remembrance of the dead are common the world over. Many have deep religious or superstitious roots- appeasing or comforting spirits, giving comfort or sustenance to departed relations, or ensuring a loved one's proper place in the afterlife. Many of us modern folk dismiss these traditions as superstitious or unnecessary, forgetting that they can also have a profound impact on the living. Memorials can provide closure and comfort, remind us of our heritage, or even serve as a caution to others (how many of us have experienced the sober warning of an anonymous cross on the highway?)

Here is a look at some of the rituals celebrated in honor of the dead- some ancient, some modern:

Día de los Muertos
This festival combines ancient Aztec customs with Catholic ritual; the dead are remembered with special foods and drinks, visits to cemeteries, and the creation of family altars.

Samhain
Modern Pagans often make this traditional Celtic festival a remembrance for the dead by holding various rituals; the most popular of these is the "dumb supper," a silent feast to honor loved ones- often, they are given a symbolic place at the table.

Vëlinës
This Lithuanian Catholic festival is similar to many observed throughout European history- special feasts are prepared and eaten in silence, churches hold memorials, and special prayers are recited.

Obon Festival
One of Japan's most well known religious celebrations is the Bon, or Obon, festival. Lanterns are hung or floated in rivers and canals to light the way for spirits to return home. Effigies are created and placed at tombs, and special dances are performed.

The Feast of the Hungry Ghosts
In this Chinese Buddhist tradition, the Ghosts of relatives and spirits of all kinds are offered food and the burnt paper effigies of money, clothing, and luxury items. Such traditions appease lonely, angry, or disturbed ghosts when the veil between the worlds of the lving and the dead are lifted.

Fet Ghede
To followers of the Vodoun religion, Fet Gede, or feast of the ancestors, marks the traditional beginning of the new year. The Ghede Loas and the ancestors are honored, debts and obligations are paid marks the New Year. In areas where Vodoun is practiced, Lavish feasts are held for the ghedes, and the day is spent visiting the graveyard to visit with the departed, and the loas and ancestors mingle freely with the living.