By Wilfredo Aguirre
The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most cherished and iconic traditions. Though it is primarily celebrated in Mexico, many other Latin American cultures also honor this day in their own unique ways. The celebration beautifully intertwines with core Catholic beliefs and coincides with the feasts of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. During this time, families lovingly remember their departed loved ones—those who now rest in the Lord’s embrace or are undergoing purification—keeping their memory alive within their hearts and prayers.
The meaning of the offering
The ofrenda, or altar, is the most emblematic and central element of the Day of the Dead celebration. Traditionally, the altar is arranged in three tiers: the top tier honors those who now share in the beatific vision of heaven; the second tier represents those undergoing purification; and the third tier reflects those of us still on earth, living out our call to holiness. This structure mirrors the Catholic understanding of the Communion of Saints—the Church Triumphant, Penitent, and Militant.
The altar is lovingly adorned with meaningful objects that honor the memory of departed loved ones, allowing families to remain spiritually connected with them. Each item placed upon the ofrenda carries deep symbolism and significance:
Candles and tapers: Represent the light of Christ that guides the souls along their path.
Water: Refreshes and quenches the spirit’s thirst after its long journey.
Marigolds: Their golden color and fragrance help guide the departed to their altar.
Bread of the Dead (Pan de Muerto): Symbolizes the sacred cycle of life and death.
Seasonal fruits: Such as sugarcane, tangerines, guavas, or oranges—along with the favorite foods of the deceased—offered as a gesture of love and remembrance.
Sugar, chocolate, or amaranth skulls: Serve as joyful reminders of the closeness between life and death.
Papel picado (cut paper): Decorates the altar and represents air, one of the four essential elements that must be present.
Photographs: Evoke the memory of those to whom the offering is dedicated, serving as the most personal and heartfelt element of the altar.
The Day of the Dead is a tradition that celebrates life
The Day of the Dead is not only a commemoration of death, but a way to celebrate life. It is a time to gather with family in prayer, share memories, and keep alive the cultural roots that identify Mexico to the world.
Remembering those we love is a way to keep them with us and our continued prayer for the eternal rest of their souls.
Wilfredo Aguirre is the Director of the Office of Hispanic Affairs.