Dia de los Muertos or as we call it, Day of the Dead, is a vibrant Mexican holiday celebrated to honor and remember loved ones who passed away. Of course, everyone is welcome to join in this tradition.
The center of this celebration is altars or ofrendas, which serve as deeply personal and symbolic spaces where families can showcase their love and respect for the departed. These altars are adorned with photographs of the deceased along with their favorite foods, drinks, and other items that reflect their personalities or hobbies. Along with the ofrendas we create a pathway with Marigold flower petals leading them back home for their visits, this also creates a space that celebrates their unique lives. In many ways, the ofrenda becomes a conversation with the past, a way for the living to reconnect with their ancestors. The altars often feature several layers each symbolizing a different aspect of the afterlife and journey of the soul. Common elements include candles which represent light guiding spirits home. Marigolds attract the souls and sugar skulls, which serve as reminders of the sweetness of life and death. Each element plays a specific role in honoring the deceased while nurturing the belief that they live on through memories and legacy.
In many communities, constructing an altar is remembering your ancestors or your loved deceased ones as a remembrance. It also fosters not just a connection to the ancestors but also a sense of community as individuals come together to share stories, prepare traditional foods, and celebrate life in all its forms. Dia de los muertos is not a “ sad “ holiday. It’s a happy celebration to celebrate life and our loved ones. As the holiday approaches, it becomes common to see altars pop up in homes and public spaces, each telling a different story.
