Significance of Day of the Dead Altars: Honor, Memory, and Tradition

One of the traditions around Day of the Dead in Mexico involves making an altar or offering for the spirits who will return on this occasion. This photo gallery contains images of a variety of Mexican Day of the Dead altars.

Altar with Pan de Muerto

This altar prominently features special pan de muertos (Day of the Dead bread) in human-like shapes of various sizes, adorned with colorful cempasuchitl flowers.

Cuicatlan Altar

This altar, created by representatives of Cuicatlan from the Cañada region of Oaxaca, is dedicated to Doña Beatriz, a respected curandera (healer) from the community.

Altar with Petate

This altar features a petate (straw mat) suspended behind, adorned with photos. In addition, nancho fruit decoratively enhances the front, accompanied by baskets and clay pots contributing to its charm.

Flowers Altar

This altar is filled with vibrant flowers, featuring a stunning combination of orange cempasuchitl and purplish-red cockscomb.

Handicraft Shop Altar

Day of the Dead altars are often displayed in businesses as well as family homes. This particular altar was set up in a handicraft shop.

Hanging Skulls Altar

Skulls hang from the arch, each with a name inscribed. The flower petals on the floor are arranged to resemble la Virgen de la Soledad, Our Lady of Solitude.

Three-tiered Altar

This altar consists of three levels, adorned with papel picado and decorative bandanas.

In front of the altar

This captures the area in front of the previous altar, showcasing sugar cane arranged in the form of a star, alongside a burner for copal incense.

Altar with Chickens

Noteworthy details include bananas and chickens hanging in the arch above the altar.

Frida Kahlo Tapestry Altar

This altar, sponsored by Mujeres Unidas A.C. from Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca, features a tapestry of Frida Kahlo. A delightful touch is the miniature band procession displayed on the bottom left.

An elegant altar

This altar is characterized by a polished appearance, where the dark purple tablecloth beautifully contrasts with the vibrant orange cempasuchitl flowers.