Approaching Día De Los Muertos: Essential Insights into This Hispanic Celebration

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As we near Día De Los Muertos, it’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with the rich traditions that accompany this significant Hispanic holiday. While Hispanic Heritage Month has concluded, the celebration of heritage continues, and learning about Día De Los Muertos is a perfect way to honor this time of year. My children are of Hispanic descent, and it has been enlightening to explore their Latinx roots together. Even if you don’t share this background, it’s worth noting that, according to the 2020 census, more than 18% of the U.S. population identifies as Hispanic. This means you’re likely to encounter Latinx individuals in various aspects of life, whether in the workplace, schools, or among friends. So, let’s dive into this important holiday.

Día De Los Muertos is not merely about face painting and skeleton costumes; it is a heartfelt occasion when families come together to commemorate the lives of their dearly departed. This holiday spans two days—November 1st is dedicated to honoring children who have passed, while November 2nd focuses on adults.

While discussions about death can be difficult, Día De Los Muertos offers a fresh perspective. The holiday celebrates and honors those who have left this world, turning remembrance into a joyful event. Each flower and decoration you encounter during this season carries meaning, and it’s worthwhile to explore the customs associated with The Day of the Dead.

Families typically set up altars known as ofrendas, which translates to “offerings” in English. These ofrendas serve as memorials, often placed at grave sites, where offerings are presented to honor the deceased. Items such as a child’s toy or a favorite treat might be included, reflecting the loved ones’ cherished belongings. In our home, we create an ofrenda on a kitchen table, incorporating candles, marigolds, sugar skulls, and photographs of those we’ve lost, spanning from the Midwest to Jalisco and Santa Fe.

Every element on the ofrenda is symbolic. For instance, candles help guide the spirits of the departed back to their families, allowing them to join in the celebrations. Marigolds, with their vibrant hues and strong scent, are believed to lead the souls to the altars. When outdoors, petals from these flowers may create a path for the spirits, while indoor displays utilize the flowers in various arrangements. If fresh blooms aren’t available, reusable marigold decorations in gold and orange are often used year after year.

Sugar skulls, known as Calaveras, are among the most recognizable symbols of Día De Los Muertos. These decorative pieces, often inscribed with the names of the deceased, remind us that even in death, the celebration should be joyful. The bright colors and embellishments serve as a reminder that life, though fleeting, is to be cherished.

Including photographs on the ofrenda helps to summon the spirits from the realm of the remembered back to the living, ensuring a connection between the two worlds. Everything on the ofrenda is a testament to the love we hold for those who have passed.

Día De Los Muertos transcends mere skeletons and spooky themes; it is a heartfelt celebration of life and legacy. Our loved ones continue to exist in our hearts, and this special day provides a chance to honor them.

To gain further insight into this celebration, check out the family-friendly films “Coco” on Disney+ or “The Book of Life” available on Amazon Prime Video. Prepare for an emotional yet enlightening experience as you learn about Día De Los Muertos—don’t forget to keep some tissues handy!

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In summary, Día De Los Muertos is a rich cultural celebration that honors those who have passed while emphasizing the joy of remembrance. It’s an opportunity for families to come together and celebrate life, love, and legacy.