4 Common Traditions in Dia de Los Muertos
We’ll be listing off 5 traditions they incorporate during this day!
1. The Ofrenda
This refers to an alter dedicated to the loved ones that have passed on, which contains their favorite foods, drinks, and photos of them, this is to leave them with something to enjoy while on the other side.
2. Sugar Skulls
The sugar skulls are for more than just being delicious, sweet treats! Their significance is for the deceased, too. Some write the name of their loved one onto the treat with icing.
3. Alebrijes
Alebrijes are fantastical animals, which tend to be vividly colored and a combination of many different creatures. They’re meant to be guides for the living and were depicted in the Zapotec calender’s 20 day cycle!
4. Marigolds
Marigolds are scattered as far as the eye can see during the Day of the Dead festivities. Their bright petals are often made into shapes or trailed by the people scattering them, the deceased then follow the petals and connect to the living. They’re also called Cempasuchitl/ Cempasuchil by Mexican people! Their sweet smell is a good indicator of their welcoming presence.
