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Each year, Nov. 1 marks the beginning of Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, in Mexico. 

The holiday is a day of remembrance for those who have died. Its origins can be traced to pre-colonial Mexico, when it was believed that the souls of dead loved ones returned to their families once a year so that their lives could be celebrated. 

Today, families commemorate the day by creating ofrendas, the Spanish word for offerings that colloquially is used to mean altar for Día de Muertos.

Capitol to host altar in observance of Día de los Muertos for the first time

Ofrendas can be customized to your liking, but many of them have some key elements. 

Arts and Culture

Ayana Archie

Author

Día de Muertos is a Mexican holiday that commemorates loved ones who have died. It is believed their spirits return to their families, who put up ofrendas, or altars, on Nov. 1. 

How to make an ofrenda for Día de Muertos

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