All Souls' Day

All Souls' Day on 2 November is a Catholic day of remembrance for all the deceased. The day follows All Saints' Day (1 November) and was introduced in the tenth century by the monk Odilo of Cluny. In Belgium, All Souls' Day carries a strong tradition of visiting cemeteries and honouring the departed.

On All Souls' Day, Belgians visit cemeteries in large numbers to lay flowers — mainly chrysanthemums — on the graves of their loved ones. Candles are placed on graves as a symbol of light and hope. In some parishes, special masses are celebrated for the souls of the deceased.