Dia de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is a vibrant and exuberant Mexican holiday that pays tribute to and celebrates the lives of departed family members. Marigolds are one of the most recognizable and colorful components of the many customs and symbols connected to this special celebration. We will explore the intriguing history of marigolds and their importance in the Day of the Dead.
The Aztecs thought marigolds had special spiritual properties. They saw the bright color of the flowers as a representation of the sun’s life-giving energy, which they thought was essential for the souls of the dead to travel to the hereafter. Marigolds were frequently used in a variety of rituals, such as funeral and burial rites.
The rich customs of the native Americans, which included the use of marigolds in spiritual rituals, were observed by the Spanish conquistadors upon their arrival in the Americas. Because of this, the marigold has come to be associated with Catholicism and the Day of the Dead celebration, which falls on November 1st and 2nd, the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Marigolds are a major component of Day of the Dead celebrations in modern times. Marigold petals are carefully placed on altars, or Ofrendas, to create elaborate patterns and designs. On the Day of the Dead, these vivid orange and yellow flowers are thought to help the departed’s spirits return to this life.
I don’t know about you but I love these flowers. I find them bright and cheery, I can see why they chose this flower to lead their loved ones back to them.