Get ready to celebrate November 2nd in style. Create your own traditional Day of the Dead altar. Here are the essential elements that must not be missing from your Día de Muertos altar.

Flowers

A basic element that should always be present on a Day of the Dead altar is flowers, but not just any kind. The traditional ones are marigold and velvet flowers. If you want to add a bit of color variation, you can also use cloud flower, carnation, or chrysanthemum.

Incense

While you can use your preferred scent, the favored incense for Día de Muertos is copal. Since ancient times, it has been believed that the smell of this resin has the power to cleanse a place of evil spirits to protect the deceased's path back home.

Candles

According to tradition, the light of the candles guides the deceased to their altar, which is why it is super important to light them (always under supervision). If you have enough space, arrange them in the shape of a cross on the floor.

Salt

According to Day of the Dead beliefs, salt helps purify and protect the souls on their journey. You can place a little salt on a small plate or form a cross with it on the floor.

Personal items

When the altar is offered for the spirit of a child, toys are usually placed so that when they visit, they can play. In the case of altars for adults, it's always necessary to add a personal item. Commonly, glasses, hats, pipes, etc., are placed.

Photograph

Some people usually hide a photo of the deceased, while others prefer to place it in the center of the altar for visibility. Either way, don’t forget to put a portrait of the person to whom you dedicate the altar.

Water

Never forget to place a glass of water on a Day of the Dead altar. It is believed that this element, besides being a symbol of purity, allows the spirit to refresh after their journey.

Food

Finally, the most important element of a Day of the Dead altar is, of course, food. Día de Muertos is not just about honoring and lovingly remembering the deceased. The altar on November 2nd is an invitation to share with the spirits of our loved ones, which is why food is so important. Remember that without good food, there is no celebration. Now that you know what you need to create your Day of the Dead altar, what are you waiting for to start cooking? These dishes are ideal for celebrating November 2nd:

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Flowers

Incense

Candles

Salt

Personal items

Photograph

Water

Food