Day of the Dead, celebrated Nov. 1-2, is one of the oldest traditions in Mexico, when the community commemorates the deceased with offerings, altars and more.
Often associated with sugar skulls, visits to the graveyards and colorful altars, it’s believed that people return from the dead to coexist with their loved ones and celebrate life after death on these dates.
As tradition holds, altars are placed in family homes or at graveyards and are decorated with orange Cempasúchil flowers known as “las flores de los muertos.” A photo of the late loved one, their belongings, food (such as pan de muerto and buñuelos) and a cup of water that signifies purity are also placed on the altar.