It is customary to set up an altar with the photos of our dearly departed during the festivities,  dressed in colorful papel picado, cempasuchil flowers, and the honorary guests' favorite foods other things they enjoyed during their time on earth. Candles and cempasuchil petals guide them home to their altar, salt is set for purification, and water to quench their thirst. Copal is burned to fill the rooms with its cleansing fragrance, and a Xoloitzcuintle dog is placed there as well to guide the soul back to the other side. It is not a spooky holiday. It is a day of celebration of life, remembrance, and the hope that someday we will get to visit our own altar to see our loved ones again.

The Mexican folk art on this page reflects the joyful, beautiful, and sometimes playful characteristics of this holiday. On this page, you will find the perfect additions to your altar or everyday decor. All the pieces are handmade in Mexico and bought directly from the artist who created them.