Día de los Muertos: Meaning & Traditions Explained

By Jairo Pérez

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June 06, 2025

Contents

Introduction

What is Día de los Muertos?

Day of the Dead History

Dia de los Muertos Meaning and Beliefs

Day of the Dead Traditions Explained

November 1 Celebrations vs. November 2

Day of the Dead Around Latin America

Travel Tips: Mexican Spanish Slang and Phrases

Best Ways to Learn About Day of the Dead

Why Día de los Muertos Matters

Final Thoughts

Introduction

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant celebration. It takes place mainly in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. It takes place on November 1 and 2 and is a time to honor and remember loved ones who have died.

This tradition is full of love, music, food, and decorations. It teaches us that death is not the end, it is part of life. For people learning Spanish, Día de los Muertos is a great chance to understand the culture better and improve language skills.

What is Día de los Muertos?

Día de los Muertos is a celebration. Families welcome the spirits of their ancestors to visit. People believe that during these two days, the souls of the dead return to spend time with the living.

This holiday is not scary or sad it’s full of joy, bright colors, and sweet memories. The Day of the Dead tradition shows how important family and history are in Mexican culture. It also highlights the connection between life and death.

Day of the Dead History

The Day of the Dead history goes way back even before the Spanish arrived in the Americas. The Aztecs and other Indigenous people believed that death was a natural part of life and should be celebrated. They had festivals that lasted weeks to honor the dead.

When the Spanish came in the 1500s, they brought Catholic holidays, like All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. These were also days to remember the dead. Over time, the Catholic and Indigenous traditions mixed. That’s how the modern Día de los Muertos celebration was born.

Dia de los Muertos Meaning and Beliefs

The Día de los Muertos meaning is about more than just remembering people who passed away. It’s about showing love and respect to ancestors, keeping their memory alive, and sharing family stories.

It also teaches that death is not something to fear, but something to accept. The bright colors, music, food, and laughter help families celebrate their loved ones instead of just mourning them.

Day of the Dead Traditions Explained

Day of the Dead traditions are beautiful and full of symbols. The most important one is the ofrenda tradition. An ofrenda is a special altar built at home or in cemeteries. It’s decorated with:

Photos of the person who died
Their favorite food or drink
Candles and flowers (especially orange marigolds)
Sugar skulls and paper decorations
Personal items that meant something to the person

Families believe that these offerings help guide the spirits back to the world of the living. It’s a way to honor and welcome them.

November 1 Celebrations vs. November 2

November 1 is called Día de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels) and is meant to remember children who have passed away. Families decorate with toys, sweets, and smaller ofrendas.

November 2 is for remembering adults. The celebrations on this day include music, dancing, and gathering at cemeteries. People bring food and talk with their ancestors as if they were still here.

These days are both a time of celebration and connection, not sadness.

Day of the Dead Around Latin America

Though Día de los Muertos is most popular in Mexico, many other Latin American countries also celebrate.

In Guatemala, families fly large, colorful kites to connect with spirits.
In Ecuador, they make a purple drink called colada morada.
In Spain, the holiday is more serious. Families visit graves, bring flowers, and pray quietly.

These differences show the exploring the diversity of Spanish-speaking cultures, even when celebrating similar traditions.

Travel Tips: Mexican Spanish Slang and Phrases

Celebrating life and legacy during Día de los Muertos in Mexico? Knowing some Mexican Spanish slang and travel phrases helps you connect with locals.

¿Cómo estás? – How are you?
¡Qué padre! – That’s so cool!
¿Dónde está el cementerio? – Where is the cemetery?
Calaca – Skeleton (used in fun ways)
¡No manches! – No way! (Surprised expression)
Chido – Cool
¿Puedo tomar una foto? – Can I take a picture?
Ofrenda – Offering or altar

These phrases can make your visit easier and more fun!

Best Ways to Learn About Day of the Dead

Want to learn more about Día de los Muertos? Here are some best practices for cultural immersion:

1. Attend a Local Celebration

Some cities and schools hold Day of the Dead events. Go check them out! You might see people in costumes, altars, music, and food.

2. Watch Movies

Movies like Coco give a fun and emotional look at the meaning of the Day of the Dead. It’s a great way to understand the tradition while improving your Spanish listening.

3. Build Your Own Ofrenda

Try creating a small altar at home. Add photos, candles, and things that remind you of someone special. It’s a good way to connect with the tradition.

4. Use Language Apps

Apps like Duolingo or Babbel offer special lessons and vocabulary about holidays like Día de los Muertos.

5. Join Language or Cultural Exchange Groups

Talk to Spanish speakers or students learning Spanish. Share what you know about the holiday and learn from them too!

Why Día de los Muertos Matters

Día de los Muertos is not just about remembering the dead, it’s about celebrating life. It shows how families stay connected across generations.

For students learning Spanish, this holiday provides a chance to grasp Mexican culture. You can explore traditions and practice Spanish in real-life situations. Understanding the Day of the Dead will help you connect with Spanish-speaking communities and boost your language skills.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Dia de los Muertos explained isn’t just about memorizing facts. It’s about appreciating culture, learning how people honor family, and seeing life and death in a new way.

The Day of the Dead tradition brings people together in love and memory. You can celebrate by watching a movie, making an ofrenda, or joining a parade.

So next November 1, take a moment to remember someone special and celebrate how powerful family traditions can be.

Jairo Pérez

Academic Team

Jairo Pérez is the Head of Academics at Comligo. Originally from Mexico, he has extensive experience teaching Spanish as a second language and in the fields of Human and Artistic Sciences. Passionate about language, culture, and education, he enjoys exploring different cultures, visiting museums, and embracing nature.