How Do You Celebrate and Who Celebrates Day of the Dead?

In 2008, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognized Mexico's Indigenous Feast Dedicated to the Dead, known as El Día de los Muertos, as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. However, like many traditions in Mexico, the celebration was primarily observed in rural Indigenous communities, only gradually gaining mainstream attention in the 1980s, with the first major public celebration taking place in 1999 in the Zócalo, the historic center of Mexico City. Surprisingly, the now world-famous Día de los Muertos parade in Mexico City didn't start until 2016, after the movie Spectre featured a fictional version of the event — with Coco giving the holiday even more mainstream attention a year later.

That said, celebrating El Día de los Muertos is deeply personal, and each region in Mexico has its own unique customs and traditions. So really, there is no single way to observe the holiday — and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. However, there are certain elements that are essential to an El Día de los Muertos celebration, which include the construction of altars, the presence of pan de muerto, the use of cempasúchil (marigold flowers), traditional skull face makeup, and the enjoyment of calaveritas (skull-shaped candies).

The families who choose to celebrate — and how they celebrate — vary widely depending on where people live and what they believe, whether through the lens of Catholicism or a belief in the supernatural. For the average tourist visiting Mexico during the Day of the Dead season, the public parades known as comparsas and the public altars displayed in major cities are often the most visible aspects of the celebration. However, locals tend to celebrate in a more traditional manner, following customs deeply rooted in the Catholic faith.

According to these beliefs, the period between All Hallows' Eve and All Souls' Day is significant because it is believed that the veil between our world and the netherworld is at its thinnest, allowing the souls of the deceased to move freely between realms. During this time, families gather in their homes to build personal altars adorned with photographs, candles, marigold flowers, and cherished belongings of their departed loved ones. Prayers, reminiscences, and offerings of food and drink are made to honor and remember those who have passed away. It is a time of reflection, celebration, and profound connection with the spirits of the dearly departed.

Day of the Dead Traditions: The Five Nights Leading Up to Día de los Muertos

Rooted in both Catholic and pre-Hispanic beliefs, the days leading up to El Día de los Muertos hold deep spiritual meaning across Mexico. According to tradition, the preparation of the altar for deceased loved ones begins on October 28th. Each night leading up to November 2nd is believed to welcome specific souls who have crossed over into the world of the living.

October 28th — On this night, the souls who perished in violent acts or suffered tragic deaths are said to walk among us. To welcome these souls, the first candle of the altar is lit, and a white flower is placed to guide them toward eternal peace.
October 29th — The second night of the celebration involves lighting a new candle and placing it on a base of water. This gesture is believed to help defenseless and forgotten souls find their way to peace and reunite with their loved ones.
October 30th — A new candle is lit with fresh water at the base of the altar, accompanied by bread symbolizing nourishment for the souls who died of hunger.
October 31st — On this night, a new candle is lit along with a glass of fresh water, and additional bread and fruit are placed on the altar. It is believed that on this day, the souls of great-grandparents, great-great-grandparents, and great aunts and uncles join the living.
November 1st — This day is known as Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints' Day). More food is added to the altar to welcome the souls of children, those who passed at birth or in the womb, as well as souls of exemplary integrity. Some also refer to this day as Día de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels).
November 2nd — Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead, All Souls' Day). Before dawn, the ringing of bells from local churches signals the arrival of all souls. Local cemeteries hold celebrations, with vendors and families adorning graves with marigold flowers, alcohol, and food. Families gather to mourn, laugh, and enjoy food, Mezcal, and music — either at home or during cemetery picnics.

Additionally, local cemeteries may have their own unique customs, such as hosting La Noche de Vela (Candlelight Vigil) on October 31st instead of November 2nd — as is the case in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, Oaxaca (my hometown), where it has become the crown jewel of El Día de los Muertos celebrations in Oaxaca. Lastly, it's important to note that while these five nights are traditionally observed, the Day of the Dead season allows for personal variations in celebration. As such, these nights should be seen more as guidelines rather than strict rules if you choose to celebrate the holiday.

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