The meaning of flowers on the Day of the Dead: A tribute of color and life in the midst of mourning.
The Day of the Dead, one of the most iconic celebrations in Mexican culture, is a time to honor deceased loved ones. Although the holiday is commonly associated with sugar skulls and decorated altars, flowers play a pivotal role in this celebration. In this blog, we'll explore the symbolism and significance of flowers on the Day of the Dead, as well as some of the most commonly used varieties in this commemoration.
The symbolism of flowers on the Day of the Dead
Flowers play an essential role in the Day of the Dead, as they are believed to bring beauty and fragrance to altars and tombs, serving as a link between the world of the living and the dead. Furthermore, their scent is believed to attract the souls of loved ones to the altars, where they can enjoy offerings and the company of their loved ones.
One of the most iconic flowers of the Day of the Dead is the cempasúchil , also known as the flower of the dead. This bright orange flower is especially popular during this celebration. It is used to create petal paths that guide souls back home, as well as to decorate altars and tombs. The color orange is associated with the sun and life, making it a symbol of resurrection.
Another very significant flower is the cempasúchil , also known as the "twenty-petal flower." This flower, which resembles a daisy, is commonly used to make wreaths and garlands, thus adorning graves and altars. Its shape is believed to evoke the cycle of life and death.
Tagete , a variety of marigold, is another important flower for the Day of the Dead. Its strong, distinctive scent is believed to guide the deceased to their offerings. This flower is used on both altars and graves.
The white flower of San Juan , also called "hoja de muerto," is placed on altars in the shape of a cross to represent the four cardinal points and guide souls to the altar. This flower is believed to have protective and purifying properties.
The white daisy is another commonly used flower. It is associated with purity and is placed on the altar to honor deceased children, known as "little angels."
Sunflowers are symbols of loyalty and longevity. They are sometimes used on altars to honor the deceased who lived a long and full life.
Orchids are considered exotic and beautiful flowers. They are often used to decorate altars and add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
The importance of the floral offering on the Day of the Dead
The floral offering on the Day of the Dead is much more than a simple decoration. Each flower and its placement on the altar have a specific purpose and meaning. These offerings are a gesture of love and respect for loved ones who have passed away and a way to keep the memory of those who are no longer physically present alive.
In addition to flowers, altars also include candles, photographs, food, drinks, sugar skulls, and personal belongings of the deceased. The combination of all these elements creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that draws souls back to the world of the living during this holiday.
The Day of the Dead today
The Day of the Dead has become a culturally significant event around the world. As the celebration has expanded beyond Mexico, appreciation for the beauty and symbolism of flowers has grown considerably. In many regions, parades and festivals are held to commemorate the occasion, where flowers play a prominent role.
In addition to their role in the celebration, flowers are also an essential part of crafts and decorations related to the Day of the Dead. Skull and altar designs often incorporate floral elements, adding color and vitality to artistic representations of this holiday.
In conclusion
The Day of the Dead is a unique celebration that combines grief and joy in an extraordinary way. Flowers play a fundamental role in this holiday, representing beauty, respect, and the connection between the living and the deceased. Each variety of flower used has a specific symbolism, and their placement on altars and tombs is a way of communicating with the souls of departed loved ones.
As the Day of the Dead continues to gain popularity around the world, the importance of flowers in this celebration becomes even more significant. They are a reminder that, despite death, love and memory endure. This beautiful tradition reminds us that life and death are intertwined, and that honoring our deceased loved ones is a way to keep them alive in our hearts and memories.
If you want to see Day of the Dead flowers in Mexico City, click here .
