It can also be helpful in the process of grieving. In a way, this celebration allows people to stay “in touch” with their departed loved ones. With the flower’s overpowering musky smell and vibrant colour, the souls easily find the altars that their relatives prepared for them. Some areas in Mexico believe that souls return to earth as a butterfly to check on their relatives.Īs we’ve mentioned, the Day of the Dead festival is believed to welcome the spirits of departed loved ones. Butterflies – The sheets of tissue paper can also be cut into butterflies to represent the belief that their loved ones can visit them any time.Rug or Mat – These are placed at the foot of the altar to provide a place to rest for the souls after their long journey.Marigold flowers – Of course, the Day of the Dead festival won’t be complete with petals of marigolds creating a path towards the altar.Incense or Copal – The aroma guides the souls through their journey and leads them back to their loved ones.Salt – Salt is also placed on the altar to represent purification.An extra one is added to the altar for the forgotten soul. Every lit candle represents a departed loved one. Water – The altar also has a container of water to quench the thirst of the souls after their long journey home.They are made by cutting elaborate designs into sheets of tissue paper. Papel Picado – This paper cut-out represents the wind.Crop – This represents the earth and how the aroma of the harvest feeds the visiting souls.Below are some of the common items you’ll see on a Dia de los Muertos altar: Dia de los Muertos altar items: In a way, the offerings express the family’s affection toward their departed relatives. They also symbolise eternal life and the belief that the presence of a loved one is everlasting. The offerings on the altars during the Day of the Dead festival primarily serve to remember the departed.
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