What Día de Muertos is
Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday on which families remember and honor loved ones who have died. The Library of Congress describes its timing as aligned with the Catholic observances of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1 and 2. UNESCO’s description of the festivity places it at the end of October to the beginning of November. It is a remembrance with joy, not a Mexican Halloween, and it has Indigenous and Catholic roots.
What an ofrenda is
An ofrenda, meaning “offering,” is an altar or display built in a home or at a grave to honor those who have died. UNESCO notes that families prepare shrines with flower petals, candles and offerings, and place the favorite dishes of the deceased around the shrine and the tomb.
What goes on it
The Library of Congress lists marigolds (cempasúchil), candles, sugar skulls and papel picado, along with photographs of loved ones, their favorite foods and drinks, and sentimental objects. Marigold colors and fragrance are said to guide souls home.
- Photographs of the person or people being remembered.
- Marigolds, in a bunch or as petals.
- Candles, with careful fire safety.
- Favorite foods and drinks, and sweets such as sugar skulls.
- Papel picado hung above or around.
Taking part respectfully
If you are not part of the tradition, learn from the families and communities who keep it. Use the Spanish words correctly. Treat an ofrenda as a memorial, not a costume prop. Ask before photographing someone’s altar, and avoid using sacred or personal items just for decoration. Making an ofrenda for someone who died in your own family can be a good way to take part with respect, if that feels right for you.
Keep it safe at home
Place candles on a stable, non-flammable surface, away from papel picado, curtains and drafts, and never leave them lit unattended. Battery-powered candles give a similar glow without the risk.
Sources and further reading
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