From sugar skulls to colorfully decorated altars the day of the dead reminds us of the importance of remembering those who came before us. Día De Los Muertos or Day of The Dead is a Mexican holiday celebrating loved ones who have passed. The holiday is celebrated on the first two days of November. On November 1st, the primary focus is on children also known as Día de los inocentes, Day of the Innocent, while the second day focuses on adults. This holiday celebrates the deceased and honors them with the belief that their spirits will return for a visit.
“The day of the dead is special to me because it lets me connect to the people I lost,” said sophomore Ruby Ballesteros.
To celebrate, people often put up ofrendas, which are altars decorated with photographs, marigolds, the favorite foods and belongings of the deceased. A symbol of this colorful holiday is the cempasúchil. The yellow and orange marigolds are said to guide the spirits to their ofrendas.
“The traditions are something that keep memories alive and really keep a lit candle for the people that passed for a way to find a path to where they once called home,” said sophomore Kaylee Alejandre-Padilla.
But this holiday is not only for the deceased while families set up ofrendas to honor the dead, they also make sweet treats for themselves. These include Calaveras and pan de muerto. The tradition of making these calaveras also known as sugar skulls is to remember that death should not be feared but celebrated. As for the Pan de muerto it serves as an offering to the deceased that the family usually eats after.
“I don’t do much to celebrate but it’s fun to decorate and spend time with family both those that are alive and those who have passed…I really enjoy decorating the sugar skulls,” said sophomore Christopher Reyes Diaz.
Día de los muertos turns a somber topic into one of joy and celebration. Although losing a loved one is difficult, the Day of the Dead offers a time to remember them in their glory, a festive gathering for families who have lost their loved ones. Día de los muertos is a time to remember the good and show appreciation for a person who has passed. It is not meant to be scary or sad, but a celebration of life and new beginnings for both family and friends. So as the end of October nears, consider thinking back to a loved one who has passed, whether that be family, a friend, or even a pet. Their spirit can be honored as long as they are remembered.
