Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, originated more than 3,000 years ago by the Indigenous people of Mexico like the Aztecs and Toltecs. They didn’t see death as the end of a person’s existence, but as another chapter in life. Rather than mourn the dead, they celebrated the lives of their lost loved ones and honored their memories.

From Oct. 31 through Nov. 2, it is believed that the dead have a window that allows them to leave the spirit realm and visit the living relatives who are celebrating their memories.  

Fast forward 3,000 years, and Día de los Muertos is celebrated all over the world. People make altars for the dead and leave offerings. They visit gravesites, hold huge festivals and come together to cherish the memories of their loved ones.

In the United States, the popularity of Día de los Muertos has grown exponentially over the last few years, fueled in part by pop culture. The 2017 movie “Coco” is heavily influenced by Día de los Muertos, Mattel came out with a Día de los Muertos Barbie in 2022, and both the L.A. Times and New York Times published articles about the Day of the Dead’s commercialization in 2017.

Today, Día de los Muertos has become a significant holiday with deep roots connected to ancient civilizations and important cultural customs. This annual tradition provides a unique perspective on death that is becoming globally recognized and practiced — popping up on the big screen, in novels like “Cemetery Boys” by Adien Thomas and in small town celebrations.

If you would like to attend a Día de los Muertos celebration, join Committee Grand Latin and Destination Granby as the organizations partner together for a community event at Middle Park High School in Granby on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 4-8 p.m.

The celebration will feature live music performed by a mariachi band, as well as folklorico dance performances. Enjoy traditional food, cultural displays and good company. For more information, check out Latinos en Grand County’s Facebook page, or visit Destination Granby’s website for more details on the event.   

The Grand County Library District is also celebrating Día de los Muertos with unique altars in each branch. We invite you to stop by to view the altars and take time to honor the memories of your own loved ones.

Día de los Muertos, as well as Mexican heritage, has a rich and fascinating history. If you are interested in learning more about Day of the Dead, please check out the resources available in your local library or at GCLD.org.

Día de los Muertos is so much more than colorful sugar skulls. It’s a celebration of life, Mexican culture and community. It’s a time to come together and not only celebrate the lives of those who have passed, but our own lives as well.