Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, is often incorrectly referred to as “Mexican Halloween” due to its timing and the presence of skeleton imagery. This three-day celebration, rooted in Aztec traditions and observed in late October primarily in southern Mexico, is a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away, including family members, friends, and even pets.

As late October approaches, various iconic symbols associated with the Day of the Dead become prominent.

Have you ever explored the beautiful traditions of Día de los Muertos, like the colorful paper flowers and face painting? If you’re not yet familiar with the components of an ofrenda, which is a traditional altar, or the importance of sugar skulls during this celebration, keep reading!

Día de los Muertos is primarily observed in Mexico and Central America but has also spread to various cities across the United States. Here’s a closer look at the customs associated with this special holiday:

Celebration Days for Día de los Muertos

The festivities for Día de los Muertos kick off on October 31st and conclude on November 2nd. This holiday blends Indigenous beliefs surrounding death with rituals rooted in Catholicism, reflecting its historical journey from Europe.

Inviting those we’ve lost to return for a day serves as a meaningful way to celebrate their lives and embrace the idea of life after death.

Customs of an Ofrenda

The celebration features essential elements like food, flowers, and altars. To pay tribute to the departed, items such as sugar skulls, sweetbread rolls, and drinks are placed on ofrendas—home altars—accompanied by clay decorations and cherished possessions.

the cemetery itself or at a table at home, family members believe their deceased will enjoy the “essence” of the treats they offer.

Origins of Skeleton Representations

Skeletons are seen as the most recognizable symbols of the Day of the Dead. Today, individuals wear elaborate costumes featuring skull designs, adding a playful element to the celebration.

A widely recognized symbol of the Day of the Dead is La Calavera Catrina, meaning “elegant skull.” This skeletal figure, adorned in a fancy outfit, was first illustrated in 1910. Mexican satirical artist Jose Guadalupe Posada was the pioneer behind this character. The illustration was meant to humorously remind those who seek social status and wealth that death comes for everyone.

for social and political importance, fundamentally, all individuals are merely collections of bones.

Alebrijes: Even spirits need guidance

In 1936, Pedro Linares, a Mexican artist from Mexico City, brought to life the celebration featuring vibrant mythical beings known as Alebrijes. These creatures are characterized by their exaggerated forms adorned with stripes and spots, representing figures from our dreams as well as the afterlife.

Typically crafted from materials like paper mache or wood.

Over the course of thousands of years, the core significance of the Day of the Dead celebration has remained consistent, even as its traditions have evolved. This holiday is a time to remember and celebrate those who have passed away while also embracing death as a natural part of existence.

SOURCE: DayofheDead.holiday/history, History.com, The University of New Mexico, Britannica.com and YSL News research