Day of the Dead or “Dia De Los Muertos” is a Mexican tradition celebrated on November 1 and 2 to honor deceased loved ones. During this holiday, families set up colorful altars called “ofrendas” that are decorated with marigolds, candles, pictures, and their loved one’s favorite food. These altars welcome their spirits back to visit the living and show that they are loved. The marigolds are key to this holiday because they attract the souls of the dead to the ofrendas. Skeletons called “calaveras” are a big part of this holiday as they represent the circle of life and celebrate the deceased ancestors. These skeletons are shown having fun like dancing and playing music to remind people that death is a natural part of life and not something to be feared.

In an interview with Emma Ortega, a senior at Mark Keppel, she said she knows what Dia De Los Muertos is and has just started celebrating recently. “I visit family members and we go to a cemetery and leave food and flowers for them. We have only been celebrating for the past 2 years.” She enjoys celebrating this holiday because it lets her spend time with family.

Anyssa Perez, junior, says she also celebrates Dia De Los Muertos. “Me and my family make an altar and put food like ‘Pan De Muertos.” She also states she only celebrates with her immediate family. “I have been celebrating since I was born, I enjoy celebrating because I like making the altars with my family.”

“Dia De Los Muertos” is very common in Mexican tradition that many families celebrate and teach their young ones about. As families carry on this tradition, it becomes more and more popular each year with people celebrating their late loved ones.