{"id":70574,"date":"2026-02-28T18:12:18","date_gmt":"2026-03-01T00:12:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/?p=70574"},"modified":"2026-02-28T18:12:22","modified_gmt":"2026-03-01T00:12:22","slug":"day-of-the-dead-altar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/day-of-the-dead-altar\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Make a Day of the Dead Altar (with Meaning)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Creating a Day of the Dead altar is one of the most heartfelt ways to honor your loved ones. But if you&#8217;re unfamiliar with the tradition, you might not know which elements belong or why they&#8217;re used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding the meaning behind each offering can turn the process of making an altar into a conversation with someone you miss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I&#8217;ve helped my mother build the ofrenda every year since I was a child. While every family in Mexico honors their dead a little differently, the essence of the altar remains the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m going to walk you through each element and what it represents so that you can create an ofrenda that actually carries meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"934\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-mexico-934x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Multi-tiered Day of the Dead altar glowing with dozens of white candles, decorated with marigolds, skeleton figurines, painted sugar skulls, and fruit, draped in white fabric under purple lighting.\" class=\"wp-image-70781\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-mexico-934x1024.jpg 934w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-mexico-456x500.jpg 456w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-mexico-228x250.jpg 228w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-mexico-768x842.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-mexico.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 934px) 100vw, 934px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:16px;line-height:21px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:14px;line-height:19px;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"]{font-size:11px;line-height:15px;}}<\/style>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading_702bf0-06 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading has-theme-palette-5-color has-text-color has-theme-palette-7-background-color has-background\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading_702bf0-06\"><em>This article may contain affiliate links. This means if you click a link on my website and make a purchase, <em>I earn a commission at no additional cost to you<\/em>. For full information, please see my <\/em><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/affiliate-disclosure\/\" target=\"_blank\"><em>disclaimer<\/em><\/a><em>&nbsp;here<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id70574_d04acb-af .kb-table-of-content-wrap{padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-right:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-left:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id70574_d04acb-af .kb-table-of-contents-title-wrap{padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id70574_d04acb-af .kb-table-of-contents-title{font-weight:regular;font-style:normal;}.kb-table-of-content-nav.kb-table-of-content-id70574_d04acb-af .kb-table-of-content-wrap .kb-table-of-content-list{font-weight:regular;font-style:normal;margin-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);margin-right:0px;margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0px;}<\/style>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is an Ofrenda for Day of the Dead?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A Day of the Dead ofrenda is an altar created to welcome the spirits of deceased loved ones back to the living world. It&#8217;s the centerpiece of D\u00eda de Muertos, filled with meaningful items like flowers, food, photographs, and candles meant to guide, nourish, honor and celebrate the returning souls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>An altar is not a display. It&#8217;s an offering to the visiting souls.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/detail-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A close up of an altar decorated by red and yellow flowers and some food on the Day of the Dead in Mexico.\" class=\"wp-image-68518\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/detail-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/detail-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/detail-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-167x250.jpg 167w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/detail-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/detail-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/detail-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-150x225.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/detail-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Families build ofrendas at home, in cemeteries, and in public spaces, especially in cities like Oaxaca and Michoac\u00e1n where large traditional celebrations take place. Each ofrenda is both personal and traditional, a space to share stories and reconnect with ancestors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15 Elements of a Day of the Dead Altar<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An altar contains a mix of items meant to guide spirits to the home, nourish them after their long journey, and honor their memory. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are the core elements you\u2019ll find on a traditional altar for D\u00eda de Muertos, as well as a few optional additions that vary by region. Once you know what goes on the altar and why, I&#8217;ll walk you through how to put it all together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. <strong>Flowers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"829\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/marigolds-jamaica-flower-market-mexico-city-1024x829.jpg\" alt=\"A man stands in the back of a truck overflowing with bright orange marigolds at the Jamaica flower market in Mexico City during Day of the Dead. Massive bundles of cempasuchil flowers spill from the vehicle creating a vivid sea of color central to a Day of the Dead altar.\" class=\"wp-image-70594\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/marigolds-jamaica-flower-market-mexico-city-1024x829.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/marigolds-jamaica-flower-market-mexico-city-618x500.jpg 618w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/marigolds-jamaica-flower-market-mexico-city-250x202.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/marigolds-jamaica-flower-market-mexico-city-768x621.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/marigolds-jamaica-flower-market-mexico-city.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Marigolds, known as <em>cempas\u00fachil <\/em>in Mexico, are the signature flower of the holiday. Their bright color and strong scent are believed to attract spirits and guide them to the altar which is why people create a path of petals leading from the doorway to the ofrenda. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/day-of-the-dead-flowers\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"70568\">Other traditional Day of the Dead flowers<\/a> include baby\u2019s breath, lilies, and cockscomb. Although it varies by region and individual family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. <strong>Photographs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"875\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/portrait-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-875x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A small altar featuring a framed black and white portrait of a woman surrounded by small black clay vases filled with marigolds, cockscomb, and baby's breath flowers. As a modern addition, the portrait has become one of the most important parts of a Day of the Dead altar in Mexico.\" class=\"wp-image-70636\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/portrait-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-875x1024.jpg 875w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/portrait-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-427x500.jpg 427w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/portrait-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-214x250.jpg 214w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/portrait-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-768x899.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/portrait-altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 875px) 100vw, 875px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Contrary to popular belief, photos are not traditional. If you think about it, photos were a luxury item until recently. Most common families did not have photos of loved ones to adorn their altars.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, however, most families do include photos of loved ones who have passed on. They&#8217;re usually placed on the upper levels as a sign of respect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. <strong>Figuritas<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Figuritas are miniature Mexican folk art that capture the connection between life and death. While some cultures see death as a &#8216;final&#8217; stage of life, indigenous cultures view death as a stage of transformation and spiritual evolution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"972\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/figurine-skeletons-day-of-the-dead-tradition-1024x972.jpg\" alt=\"Miniature figurine, a Day of the Dead tradition, of two skeletons seated on stools around a wooden crate table with beer bottles and cigarettes with purple papel picado, butterflies, and orange marigolds.\" class=\"wp-image-70784\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/figurine-skeletons-day-of-the-dead-tradition-1024x972.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/figurine-skeletons-day-of-the-dead-tradition-527x500.jpg 527w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/figurine-skeletons-day-of-the-dead-tradition-250x237.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/figurine-skeletons-day-of-the-dead-tradition-768x729.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/figurine-skeletons-day-of-the-dead-tradition.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>These handmade pieces are sold at local markets during the season and depict skeletons doing everyday things, like cooking, dancing, or hanging out. They are meant to evoke joy and humor while celebrating the life of our loved ones beyond death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. <strong>Personal Items<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A personal item or keepsake from a loved one who has passed is a beautiful way to honor them on your altar. These can take many forms, but some of the ways we incorporated them in my family include adding a personal object like a favorite cup to drink out of or a trinket they cherished in life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My grandmother used my grandfather\u2019s calaca figurines (popular Mexican folk art of skeletons doing everyday tasks) to remember him this year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0;font-size:18px\"><blockquote><p>While some cultures see death as a &#8216;final&#8217; stage of life, indigenous cultures view death as a stage of transformation and spiritual evolution.<\/p><cite>&#8211; Xochitl (author)<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. <strong>Candles&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Candles represent fire, one of the four natural elements. They purify the space and light the way for spirits to find the altar and return home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some families light one candle per soul, while others place clusters or line the entire altar. Candles can be simple (like plain white veladoras) or intricate and shaped like vibrant marigolds, skulls, and other figures.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. <strong>Food and Drinks<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"771\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pan-de-muerto-mexico-1024x771.jpg\" alt=\"Sugar dusted pan de muerto arranged on a bakery display tray with the signature bone shaped dough decoration on top. This traditional Day of the Dead bread is commonly placed on altars and enjoyed with hot drinks.\" class=\"wp-image-70616\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pan-de-muerto-mexico-1024x771.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pan-de-muerto-mexico-664x500.jpg 664w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pan-de-muerto-mexico-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pan-de-muerto-mexico-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pan-de-muerto-mexico.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Food is essential to a Day of the Dead altar because it is believed that spirits consume the \u201cessence\u201d of the foods we offer them. It&#8217;s also a way for us to connect and share with the deceased, since we commonly eat the items placed on the ofrenda after the celebrations are over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My mother is very particular about <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/day-of-the-dead-food-drinks\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"70570\">what food to put on a Day of the Dead altar<\/a> each day as we build our altar in stages (more on that later). In the end it&#8217;s usually filled with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fragrant Fruits<\/strong> &#8211; oranges, bananas, apples<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Traditional Food<\/strong> &#8211; tamales, mole, pan de muerto<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drinks<\/strong> &#8211; water, hot chocolate, caf\u00e9 de olla<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Traditional spirits<\/strong> &#8211; mezcal and tequila<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Glass of Water<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A glass of water is one of the first things placed on an ofrenda. It&#8217;s there to quench the thirst of the spirits after their long journey back to the living world. Water also serves as a symbol of purification, cleansing the space for the souls&#8217; arrival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. <strong>Copal Incense&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Copal is a tree resin that has been used in rituals and ceremonies since pre-Hispanic times. On a Day of the Dead altar, copal is burned to purify the space and guide spirits with its distinctive scent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"794\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/copal-dia-de-muertos-ritual-1024x794.jpg\" alt=\"Pieces of golden copal resin displayed at a market stall with small clay incense burners nearby. Burning copal is a Day of the Dead traditions to cleanse the space and guide spirits with its fragrant smoke.\" class=\"wp-image-70672\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/copal-dia-de-muertos-ritual-1024x794.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/copal-dia-de-muertos-ritual-644x500.jpg 644w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/copal-dia-de-muertos-ritual-250x194.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/copal-dia-de-muertos-ritual-768x596.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/copal-dia-de-muertos-ritual.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditionally copal is burned in a small clay incense burner called a sahumerio. If you\u2019re unable to find it, a strong incense like frankincense works as a substitute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. <strong>Salt<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Salt is believed to purify and preserve the spirits\u2019 essence.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);max-width:715px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;padding-top:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);padding-bottom:var(--global-kb-spacing-sm, 1.5rem);}.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap > div:not(.added-for-specificity){grid-column:initial;}.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:var(--global-palette2, #2B6CB0)!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap > div:not(.added-for-specificity){grid-column:initial;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap > div:not(.added-for-specificity){grid-column:initial;}.kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr);}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id70574_ab3352-3b alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-3-columns kt-row-layout-row kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-row kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column70574_81e270-3a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column70574_81e270-3a\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p><strong>You may also like<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column70574_20bd8b-39\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id70574_cbc7ac-42 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id70574_cbc7ac-42 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id70574_cbc7ac-42 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(45% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(55% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id70574_cbc7ac-42 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id70574_cbc7ac-42 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id70574_cbc7ac-42 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id70574_cbc7ac-42 alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-equal kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column70574_3d7bad-c5\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image70574_401e3a-d6 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image70574_401e3a-d6\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/day-of-the-dead-traditions-symbols\/\" class=\"kb-advanced-image-link\" aria-label=\"Day of the Dead Traditions\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/day-of-the-dead-patzcuaro-michoacan-700x467.jpg\" alt=\"In one of the most moving Day of the Dead traditions, a woman stands in a cemetery at night surrounded by orange flowers and burning candles. On the left is a portrait of a man hanging on a cross made of flowers during Day of the Dead in Patzcuaro.\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-68508\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/day-of-the-dead-patzcuaro-michoacan-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/day-of-the-dead-patzcuaro-michoacan-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/day-of-the-dead-patzcuaro-michoacan-250x167.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/day-of-the-dead-patzcuaro-michoacan-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/day-of-the-dead-patzcuaro-michoacan-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/day-of-the-dead-patzcuaro-michoacan.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kt-row-column-wrap > .kadence-column70574_2b1582-65{align-self:center;}.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65{align-self:auto;}.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-row-column-wrap > .kadence-column70574_2b1582-65{align-self:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65{align-self:auto;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-row-column-wrap > .kadence-column70574_2b1582-65{align-self:center;}.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65{align-self:auto;}.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}.kadence-column70574_2b1582-65 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column70574_2b1582-65\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0\"]{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0\"]{font-size:16px;line-height:1.5;}}<\/style>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading70574_4feb52-a0\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/day-of-the-dead-traditions-symbols\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"70576\">15 Day of the Dead Traditions and Symbols You Should Know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column70574_bb67d0-c1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column70574_9d9655-d8\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id70574_dfe34c-af > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id70574_dfe34c-af > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id70574_dfe34c-af > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(45% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(55% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id70574_dfe34c-af > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.30;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id70574_dfe34c-af > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id70574_dfe34c-af > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);grid-template-columns:repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id70574_dfe34c-af alignnone wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-equal kt-tab-layout-inherit kt-mobile-layout-equal kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column70574_15efd4-17 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column70574_15efd4-17\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image70574_0fec37-ad .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image70574_0fec37-ad\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/la-catrina-meaning-history\/\" class=\"kb-advanced-image-link\" aria-label=\"La Catrina\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/face-paint-la-catrina-mexico-city-584x500.jpg\" alt=\"An artist applying La Catrina day of the dead makeup on a woman who checks her sugar skull design in a small mirror. The artists' own face is also painted using white, blue, pink, and purple.\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-70751\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/face-paint-la-catrina-mexico-city-584x500.jpg 584w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/face-paint-la-catrina-mexico-city-1024x877.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/face-paint-la-catrina-mexico-city-250x214.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/face-paint-la-catrina-mexico-city-768x658.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/face-paint-la-catrina-mexico-city.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kt-row-column-wrap > .kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9{align-self:center;}.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9{align-self:auto;}.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-row-column-wrap > .kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9{align-self:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9{align-self:auto;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kt-row-column-wrap > .kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9{align-self:center;}.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9{align-self:auto;}.kt-inner-column-height-full:not(.kt-has-1-columns) > .wp-block-kadence-column.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}.kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column70574_4a3c67-f9\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b\"]{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b\"]{font-size:16px;line-height:1.5;}}<\/style>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading70574_3c9520-0b\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/la-catrina-meaning-history\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"70748\">Who is La Catrina? History and Meaning in Mexico<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. <strong>Papel Picado<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"771\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/papel-picado-mexico-day-of-the-dead-1024x771.jpg\" alt=\"Strands of papel picado banners in bright pink orange yellow and blue with skull and skeleton cutout designs hanging above a market stall. These traditional paper decorations are one of the most common Mexico Day of the Dead symbols.\" class=\"wp-image-70635\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/papel-picado-mexico-day-of-the-dead-1024x771.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/papel-picado-mexico-day-of-the-dead-664x500.jpg 664w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/papel-picado-mexico-day-of-the-dead-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/papel-picado-mexico-day-of-the-dead-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/papel-picado-mexico-day-of-the-dead.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Papel picado adds movement and beauty to the altar, symbolizing the impermanence of life. These colorful perforated paper banners also represent air, another of the four natural elements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During Day of the Dead, papel picado comes in seasonal colors like oranges, purples, and even black, often featuring skulls and skeleton figures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. <strong>Arch<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some altars include an arch made of cempas\u00fachil flowers or reeds to symbolize the gateway between life and death. Whether to include one depends on regional customs and available space.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patzcuaro-day-of-the-dead-altars-santa-fe-laguna-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Family altar decorated with yellow and red flowers and food on the Day of the Dead in Patzcuaro.\" class=\"wp-image-68538\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patzcuaro-day-of-the-dead-altars-santa-fe-laguna-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patzcuaro-day-of-the-dead-altars-santa-fe-laguna-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patzcuaro-day-of-the-dead-altars-santa-fe-laguna-167x250.jpg 167w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patzcuaro-day-of-the-dead-altars-santa-fe-laguna-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patzcuaro-day-of-the-dead-altars-santa-fe-laguna-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patzcuaro-day-of-the-dead-altars-santa-fe-laguna-150x225.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patzcuaro-day-of-the-dead-altars-santa-fe-laguna.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re building an altar at home, the arch doesn&#8217;t need to be elaborate. A simple frame made from wood, wire, or even cardboard works as a base. Cover it with marigolds, papel picado, or whatever you have available. The symbolism matters more than the materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. <strong>Petate (Rug)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A petate is a woven palm-leaf mat placed at the base of the altar. In rural areas, petates are still used for resting, sleeping, birth, and burial. On an ofrenda, it provides a sacred resting place for the spirits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Petates also create a designated barrier between the altar and common space. It\u2019s not unusual for families to pray at the altar, often reciting rosaries before removing objects from the altar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. <strong>Sugar Skulls<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"794\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sugar-skulls-day-of-the-dead-tradition-1024x794.jpg\" alt=\"Dozens of small white sugar skulls, a Day of the Dead tradition, piled high. Each skull is decorated with bright icing flowers and colorful eye sockets in pink, green, red, and blue \u2014 ready for a D\u00eda de Muertos altar.\" class=\"wp-image-70783\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sugar-skulls-day-of-the-dead-tradition-1024x794.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sugar-skulls-day-of-the-dead-tradition-644x500.jpg 644w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sugar-skulls-day-of-the-dead-tradition-250x194.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sugar-skulls-day-of-the-dead-tradition-768x596.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/sugar-skulls-day-of-the-dead-tradition.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Sugar skulls are decorative elements meant to represent the departed. The origin of the use of sugar skulls on ofrendas is an interesting fusion of indigenous and Spanish traditions. Today sugar skulls represent joy, beauty and impermanence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. <strong>Monarch Butterflies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"769\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/monarch-butterfly-trips-1024x769.jpg\" alt=\"A mural depicting different animals and monarch butterflies that you can see during a Monarch butterfly trip in Mexico.\" class=\"wp-image-68559\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/monarch-butterfly-trips-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/monarch-butterfly-trips-666x500.jpg 666w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/monarch-butterfly-trips-250x188.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/monarch-butterfly-trips-768x577.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/monarch-butterfly-trips-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/monarch-butterfly-trips.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Monarch butterflies are iconic for <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/patzcuaro-dia-de-muertos-michoacan\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"68697\">Day of the Dead in Michoac\u00e1n<\/a>, where millions begin to arrive each year in early November. Many believe the butterflies carry the spirits of their ancestors returning home. Not every region includes them on the altar, but in Michoac\u00e1n the connection runs deep.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have the opportunity, you should visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/monarch-butterfly-migration-mexico\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"68800\">monarch butterfly sanctuaries in Michoac\u00e1n<\/a>, ideally in January or February. It is one of <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/best-things-to-do-in-mexico\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"70309\">the most incredible experiences in Mexico<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. <strong>Pet Toys, Bowls, and Food<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>October 27th is when the spirits of deceased pets are believed to visit. If you&#8217;re honoring a pet, place their favorite food and water bowl on the lowest level of the altar. A photo or a toy they loved is a nice touch too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Many Levels Should a Day of the Dead Altar Have?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"970\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-figurine-970x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Miniature Day of the Dead altar with a marigold arch, tiered colorful papel picado-wrapped levels holding candles, pan de muerto, and photos, flanked by two cloaked skeleton figures under papel picado banners.\" class=\"wp-image-70780\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-figurine-970x1024.jpg 970w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-figurine-474x500.jpg 474w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-figurine-237x250.jpg 237w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-figurine-768x811.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-figurine.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 970px) 100vw, 970px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A traditional altar for D\u00eda de Muertos<strong> <\/strong>can have 2, 3, 7, or even 9 levels, depending on regional beliefs and available space. If you only have enough space for one level, it still holds meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>2 levels<\/strong> &#8211; Represent earth and sky. Simple and common for home altars.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>3 levels<\/strong> &#8211; Symbolize heaven, earth, and the underworld. This is the most typical format today.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>7 levels<\/strong> &#8211; Represent the stages the soul must pass through to reach spiritual peace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>9 levels<\/strong> &#8211; Less common but symbolic of the nine levels to reach the underworld in Mexica cosmology.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll see large multi-level altars especially in places known for elaborate celebrations like <a href=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/oaxaca-day-of-the-dead\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"7117\">Day of the Dead in Oaxaca<\/a> and Michoac\u00e1n.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A white-clothed altar with different colorful cloths, lots of yellow flowers, pots, fruits, candles and a Day of the Dead statue.\" class=\"wp-image-68535\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-250x167.jpg 250w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/altar-day-of-the-dead-mexico.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Make a Day of the Dead Altar<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Building an ofrenda is personal, but these steps will help you create a meaningful and visually balanced altar. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is important to complete steps 1-7 before the arrival of the spirits. But most importantly, take your time. Many families build their altar gradually over several days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Choose a location. <\/strong>Select a quiet, stable area against a wall or table.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Build your structure. <\/strong>Use boxes, crates, or stacked tables to create levels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lay down fabrics. <\/strong>Cover the structure with a tablecloth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Place the photos. <\/strong>Put photographs on the top level to honor the deceased.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Add candles and incense. <\/strong>Distribute candles around the altar and set a safe spot for copal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Arrange flowers. <\/strong>Use marigolds to frame the altar and create a path of petals if desired.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Include water, salt, and symbolic elements. <\/strong>These basics welcome and purify spirits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Add food and drinks. <\/strong>Offer the favorite dishes, sweets, and beverages of your loved ones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Place personal belongings. <\/strong>Add memorable items that reflect personality and life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Decorate with sugar skulls and mini figurines. <\/strong>Use them to fill empty spaces and add color.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mama-coco-day-of-the-dead-lago-de-patzcuaro-santa-fe-laguna-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Flowers, candles and food being offered at the photo stand of Mama Coco on the Day of the Dead in Santa Fe Laguna.\" class=\"wp-image-68512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mama-coco-day-of-the-dead-lago-de-patzcuaro-santa-fe-laguna-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mama-coco-day-of-the-dead-lago-de-patzcuaro-santa-fe-laguna-333x500.jpg 333w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mama-coco-day-of-the-dead-lago-de-patzcuaro-santa-fe-laguna-167x250.jpg 167w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mama-coco-day-of-the-dead-lago-de-patzcuaro-santa-fe-laguna-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mama-coco-day-of-the-dead-lago-de-patzcuaro-santa-fe-laguna-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mama-coco-day-of-the-dead-lago-de-patzcuaro-santa-fe-laguna-150x225.jpg 150w, https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/mama-coco-day-of-the-dead-lago-de-patzcuaro-santa-fe-laguna.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Questions About Altars of Day of the Dead<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1768773286912\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>What are three common items often placed on an ofrenda?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Candles, water, and food are three common items placed on an ofrenda. These cover the basic needs of the souls during their journey from the afterlife to the world of the living. Candles provide a guiding light and purify the space, water quenches the spirits&#8217; thirst, and food nourishes them after their long journey.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1768773295582\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can you put up an ofrenda if you&#8217;re not Mexican?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, you can put up an ofrenda even if you\u2019re not Mexican, as long as you do so respectfully. D\u00eda de Muertos welcomes remembrance, and many non-Mexicans participate as a way to honor their loved ones while learning about the tradition and its cultural roots.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1768773308693\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>How long do you leave the Day of the Dead altar up?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Typically, you leave a Day of the Dead altar up from October 27th to November 3rd. My family always makes an altar by October 28th at the latest and cleans up on November 3rd. The souls are believed to depart on November 2nd at midnight, so it\u00b4s best not to clean up before then.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Creating Your Day of the Dead Ofrenda<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Making a Day of the Dead altar is an act of love rooted in centuries of tradition. Every candle, every offering, every marigold petal carries intention. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you know what each element means, you can build an ofrenda that is thoughtful, authentic, and personal. Something that honors your loved ones and keeps them close, year after year.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Creating a Day of the Dead altar is one of the most heartfelt ways to honor your loved ones. But if you&#8217;re unfamiliar with the tradition, you might not know which elements belong or why they&#8217;re used. Understanding the meaning behind each offering can turn the process of making an altar into a conversation with&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":70781,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_coblocks_attr":"","_coblocks_dimensions":"","_coblocks_responsive_height":"","_coblocks_accordion_ie_support":"","_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[228],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-70574","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-day-of-the-dead"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":228,"label":"Day of the Dead"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/day-of-the-dead-altar-mexico-934x1024.jpg",934,1024,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Xochitl","author_link":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/author\/xochitl\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":228,"name":"Day of the Dead","slug":"day-of-the-dead","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":228,"taxonomy":"category","description":"","parent":0,"count":5,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":228,"category_count":5,"category_description":"","cat_name":"Day of the Dead","category_nicename":"day-of-the-dead","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70574","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=70574"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70574\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":70787,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/70574\/revisions\/70787"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/70781"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=70574"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=70574"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/culturestraveled.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=70574"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}