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I’ve never been much of a fan of Halloween. I mean, I can get on board with all of the candy, but the scary decor and spooky stuff just never interested me. But Dia de Los Muertos? That’s a holiday that has taken on a new meaning to me.
In Mexican culture, Dia de los Muertos is October 31 through November 2nd and is a time to remember those loved ones who have died.
If you’ve seen the movie Coco (which is really cute, might I add), then you know that the family creates an altar with photos of their deceased loved ones in hopes that those family members who have passed will come back for a visit. And then in the next couple days they decorate the grave sites of these loved ones.
Along with the photos, the altar is decorated with marigolds, sugar skulls, cardboard skeletons, bread, tissue paper decorations, nuts and fruit, candles, and other seasonal dishes. It’s quite the colorful display! And it’s not a somber event either – the Day of the Dead is all about celebrating the lives of those who are no longer with us. Yes, we miss them, but it’s a great time to reflect and remember those fun memories with them.
I may not be Mexican, but ever since I lost my grandmother this year, I know all too well how it feels to miss someone so terribly and want to see them again. So this year, along with some friends, we got together and created a Dia de los Muertos party – aka Dia de los Amigas (Day of the Girl Friends).
Here’s a little look into all of the details:
Food
Bob Armstrong’s Chile Con Queso. Alicia from The Kitchen Chick made this delicious cheese dip for us to eat. Nothing says fiesta like hot cheese dip!
Pennie’s Tamales. It’s a not a party around the holidays without having some delicious tamales there.
Churros Bar. I created a sweet dessert bar based on this cinnamon and sugar treat. Homemade chocolate sauce, vanilla sauce, and loads of toppings make for an interactive dessert that can’t be beat. See the full details and recipes on my feature on TargetMadeMeDoIt.com
Sugar Skull Cookies. The amazing Jennifer from Good Gosh Ganache made these absolutely amazing cookies. They are hand painted sugar skulls complete with icing frames.
Chorizo & Apricot Aoili Skewers by The Kitchen Chick. Spicy sausage is balanced with a sweet apricot sauce and served in a fun to eat way – on a stick!
Fruit Tacos. I made this recipe and it was a hit! They’re also really easy to put together and customize to each guests’ taste.
Blackberry Mezcal Smash Cocktail by The Kitchen Chick. Smoky mezcal is a more raw version of tequila and mixed with sweet blackberries for this refreshing cocktail.
Mexican Hot Chocolate. If it’s already cold out where you live, you could easily serve this instead of the Mezcal cocktail so you can keep those hands and tummies warm.
Decor
Paper banners strung from the ceiling, vigil candles lit, and paper tissue flowers are a great way to add color and warmth.
You’ll also want to include photos of loved ones who have passed, as well as marigold flowers if you can. But the paper ones work just as well.
Invitations & Menu Cards by Evangeline Event Designs.
Small decorative items, embroidered towel, and Freida photo provided by Hendley Market.
Fiestaware plates and bowls provided by Yesterday’s Best.
Also, a big thank you to author Kathleen Maca for helping us get all the details right for honoring this beautiful holiday.
I hope this party of mine inspires you to get together and celebrate Dia de los Muertos with those you love!
