26/10/2026
Día de Mu***os is approaching, and since it’s one of the most important days of the year in Mexico, we wanted to take a moment to share a little context with you, so swipe through for five things you might not know about the celebration.
Traditional ofrendas usually have seven levels, each holding specific items that can’t be missing, like family photos, their favourite foods, drinks, and games, alongside the four elements, which is where the candles come in to represent fire, but beyond the symbolism, the candles are lit near altars and in cemeteries to help guide the spirits back to their families, making sure they find their way home 🕯️
La Catrina has become the face of the celebration, inspiring countless poems and songs that are now staples of Día de Mu***os, and while we also call her La Garbancera, La Huesuda, La Flaca, or La Calaca, her name actually stems from a satirical take on “Catherine,”what was considered a pretentious European name in the 19th century when some Mexican families adopted foreign names to appear more upper class.
The cempasúchil is a seasonal flower that blooms in central Mexico in the months leading up to autumn, and while you’ll find them in pink, yellow, white, and red, the bright orange variety is the most traditional, with that specific colour and their scent becoming the most iconic elements of the celebration 💐
Pan de mu**to is a soft, sweet pastry baked all over Mexico from September through November, and you’ll find it sitting on almost every ofrenda across the country, usually served alongside a cup of horchata, hot chocolate, or champurrado.
Día de Mu***os shows exactly how Mexicans relate to death, not with fear or sadness, but with a deep mutual respect that comes through in humour and community, which is why the day is so bright and colourful, a time for families to gather, share food, and keep the memory of their loved ones alive through laughter and time spent together 🪅
If you’re in Borough Market this week, come share a drink or a bite with us, and let us know how you’re keeping your loved ones close this season.
