On November 2, the number of candles and dishes of food increases. Sometimes, part of the food is taken to the cemetery along with marigold flowers, and placed at the grave of the soul. There, the family and friends stays until dawn of November 3. A visit to these states during the celebration becomes an unforgettable experience. In Nejapa de Madero, Oaxaca, preparations begin as earky as a month before when the stalks are chosen for the family altars, typical foods are slowly prepared, and mezcal is bought.
Church bells begin their two-day day and nigth tolling.
On November 2, people gather to hear priests give sermons for the souls of the deceased, while bands play traditional music. People search the neighborhod for the souls of relatives who cannot find their way home. If the neighbor is a friend, they are shown to the dining room where they are given mezcal, an alcoholic drink, and food. One must have a big appetite and a high alcohol tolerance level, because one eats and drinks at every house visited. In Metepec, bells announce the arrival of the souls of both children and adults.