Celebrated annually from October 31st to November 2nd, the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) serves in honor of loved ones who have passed away, founded on a rich history of tradition and culture. It invites families to reunite with the spirits of their ancestors, blending ancient Mesoamerican customs with European influences.
The celebration officially begins on October 31st, coinciding with Halloween. According to popular belief, at midnight the gates of heaven open allowing the spirits of the children to come back for a 24-hour visit. Families prepare altars (ofrendas) adorned with photographs, favorite foods, drinks, and items that the departed like, ensuring a warm welcome for their loved ones. Colorful flowers, usually marigolds, more commonly called cempasúchil, help guide the spirits home with their bright petals that symbolize the fragility of life.
On November 1st, known as Día de los Santos Inocentes, the focus shifts to the souls of children, while November 2nd is dedicated to honoring adult spirits. Bella Javadpour, a junior whose family is from Mexico, said, “[My family] puts an ofrenda each year and we think of memories of the people that we have lost.”
Overall, families gather to share meals, honor, and celebrate life, showing deep respect for those who have passed, transforming grief into joy, and most importantly emphasizing that death is not an end but a continuation of existence in another form. “I [like the holiday because] I spend time with my family and we just get to think about past memories and how they connect us,” shared Javadpour.
