Día de Los Muertos, or “Day of the Dead,” is a two-day holiday to remember family members and friends who have died. Día de Los Muertos has origins throughout Mexico and parts of Latin America, and is celebrated on November 1 and 2. The holiday is not a version of Halloween, but rather an enduring ritual celebrated since ancient times.
Día de los Muertos is a time of celebration, and gathering of families and friends, to remember their loved ones. There are bright colors and beautiful adornments. It is not a sad ritual. Traditions connected with this holiday include building a private altar, also known as an “Ofrenda,” to honor a family’s dead relatives. The altars are adorned with sugar skulls, marigolds, and favorite foods and beverages of those who have died. Ofrendas or “altars” are not for worshipping, but for offering love and remembrance for the ancestors. Día de los Muertos recognizes that death is a natural part of the human experience and provides a time to honor the Dead.
While the holiday is celebrated various ways throughout the world, the common theme is that this is a special time to intentionally remember those who have died.
This year at Dougy Center, families can participate in Día de los Muertos activities to remember and honor their loved ones. We encourage you and your family to honor the lives of the people in your life who have died with their favorite food, drinks, and activities. On November 1 and 2, we invite you to post photos of your loved one in celebration of Día de Los Muertos to your social media. Use #dougycenterofrenda and tag Dougy Center @thedougycenter.
Find more about Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and download a special activity here.
