Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is celebrated primarily on November 1st and 2nd. These dates coincide with the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day (November 1st) and All Souls’ Day (November 2nd). The celebration is most strongly associated with Mexico but is also observed in other Latin American countries and among Hispanic communities in the United States and elsewhere.
It is a time for families to come together to celebrate the lives of those who have passed away. Altars, or ofrendas, are typically set up with offerings that can include food, marigold flowers, candles, sugar skulls, photographs of the deceased, and other items with personal significance. These ofrendas are often displayed at homes, in cemeteries, and in public places.
While Día de los Muertos is a multi-day celebration, the specific customs and traditions can vary by region and community. In some places, celebrations begin on October 31st and extend through November 2nd. The holiday is a unique blend of indigenous beliefs and Catholicism, resulting in a colorful and vibrant celebration that focuses on honoring the memory of the deceased rather than mourning their loss.
