What is Día de los Muertos? Things to know for Day of the Dead holiday

Each year, Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a celebration that takes place in Mexico and Latin American communities. It dates back more than 3,000 years when the Aztecs and other Mesoamerican societies embraced death as an essential part of existence.

Today, the tradition of honoring the dead continues mainly in Mexico but people all over the world have come to love the exuberance and positive light the day offers, creating traditions of their own.

When is Day of the Dead?

Día de los Muertos is celebrated on Friday, Nov. 1, and Saturday, Nov. 2. The holiday is marked by two days of festivities that remember loved ones by celebrating their lives rather than mourning them. During this time, it is thought that the veil between the living and the dead is lifted, making it possible for the dead to visit their family and friends.

Over the course the two days, three types of spirits are remembered, beginning with those of children, then adults, and during the final hours of the second day, all.

In Mexico and other Latino communities around the world, colorful costumes are worn, and many parties, parades and festivals are thrown to welcome these spirits.

How is Day of the Dead celebrated?

Day of the Dead begins at midnight on Nov. 1 with Día de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels), when children who have died travel to the land of the living to be with their families for 24 hours. The children’s photographs are placed on altars known as ofrendas, or offerings, adorned with their favorite foods, sweets, toys, and sugar skulls with their names.

Midnight of the second day transitions into Día de los Difuntos, where adult spirits are celebrated. Large and small ofrendas are created with marigolds and past memories including photographs, favorites foods and drinks, tequila and mezcal, personal belongings, and other items of meaning.

The rest of the day is a celebration of all spirits. It is filled with love, cherished memories, music, laughter, singing and dancing. It is a time to dress up and celebrate who a loved one was while encouraging them to come back and join in on the festivities created to honor their life.

What events are happening in Oregon for the Day of the Dead?

• Día de Muertos: Oregon project: This event takes place from Oct. 13 through Nov. 3 and is a project that “explores the origins and evolution of the traditional Mexican celebration Day of the Dead,” consisting of a Day of the Dead themed art installation and exhibit across Oregon, according to the Oregon Muertos website. Installations, skeletons and multiple community ofrendas can be found in Eugene, Gresham, Portland and Hillsboro.

Ginnie Sandoval is the Oregon Connect reporter for the Statesman Journal. Sandoval can be reached at GSandoval@gannett.com or on X at@GinnieSandoval.