As we approach Día De Los Muertos, it’s a wonderful opportunity to delve into the traditions surrounding this significant Hispanic holiday. While Hispanic Heritage Month has concluded, appreciation for cultural heritage continues year-round. My children are of Hispanic descent, and I’ve found it enlightening to explore their Latinx roots alongside them. Even if you don’t identify as Hispanic, it’s important to note that, according to the 2020 census, over 18% of the U.S. population is. This means you’re likely to encounter Latinx individuals in your community, whether through colleagues, students, or friends.
Día De Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, transcends mere face painting or skeleton costumes. This two-day celebration, held on November 1st and 2nd, is a heartfelt time for families to honor the lives of those who have passed away. The first day is dedicated to celebrating deceased children, while the second day focuses on adults.
While discussing death can often be daunting, Día De Los Muertos reframes this topic, emphasizing remembrance and joy rather than sorrow. This holiday encourages families to come together to celebrate the memories of their loved ones, and every flower and decoration carries its own unique symbolism.
One of the central practices involves creating an altar, known as an ofrenda, which translates to “offering.” These altars can be set up at burial sites or in homes as a tribute to the deceased. They are adorned with items that the honored individuals cherished in life, such as toys or favorite foods. In our household, we transform an end table in our kitchen into an ofrenda, featuring candles, marigolds, sugar skulls, and pictures of our loved ones.
Each element placed on the ofrenda serves a purpose. Candles or lanterns illuminate the altar, guiding the spirits of the departed back to their families. Marigolds, with their vibrant colors and captivating scent, are believed to attract the spirits and are often laid out as a path for them to follow. While fresh marigolds may not always be available, many families opt for reusable decorations in gold and orange hues.
Sugar skulls, known as Calaveras, are perhaps the most recognizable symbols of Día De Los Muertos. These colorful confections are inscribed with names and placed on the ofrenda to celebrate the deceased. The use of sugar symbolizes the joy of life and the ephemeral nature of existence, as these treats can quickly dissolve outdoors.
Photographs of loved ones are a crucial addition to any ofrenda, acting as a bridge between the living and the departed. Just like the candles and marigolds, these images keep the memory of those we’ve lost alive, reminding us that they are always present in our hearts.
Día De Los Muertos is ultimately a celebration, not a somber occasion. It is a time to reflect on the lives of those who have passed while cherishing the memories that remain. If you’re curious to learn more, I recommend watching Coco on Disney+ or The Book of Life on Amazon Prime Video. These family-friendly films beautifully capture the essence of this holiday.
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Summary
Día De Los Muertos is a vibrant celebration rooted in honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed away. Through the creation of ofrendas adorned with meaningful items, families come together to reflect on the lives of those they cherish, transforming the conversation around death into one of joyful remembrance.
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