Celebrating Life, Memory & Community: The Importance of Día de Muertos for Families

Every year from October 31st to November 2nd, families come together to observe Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead). This celebration rooted in honoring the lives of those who have passed away. More than a ritual, it is a time to remember, laugh, share, and connect across generations. For families, it offers a unique opportunity to say, “You are not forgotten.”

In Rochester, MN, this tradition finds a meaningful home through local celebrations including a special event held by the Family Resource Center to ensure the values of remembrance and togetherness are shared in the local community.

Families gather to build ofrendas (altars) with photos, candles, favorite foods, flowers (often cempasúchil or marigolds), papel picado, and sugar skulls. Through this ritual, children learn about their ancestors—not in a distant, abstract way, but through stories, mementos, and shared laughter. Parents and older relatives can pass down traditions, family history, recipes, and lessons of resilience.

Rather than ignoring loss, Día de Muertos encourages families to face grief with dignity and love. It’s a space to talk about loss, to name it, to honor it, and to affirm that, although someone may be gone physically, their memory continues in the living. Sharing memories together fosters healing.

For families who trace their roots to Latin America or Mexico, maintaining the tradition of Día de Muertos is a powerful act of cultural continuity, especially for younger generations growing up in other places. It helps embed pride, identity, and connection to ancestral heritage. Even families from other backgrounds can engage respectfully - learning, sharing, and inviting cross-cultural understanding.

Día de Muertos celebrations often become public, communal events. Neighbors, friends, and strangers to participate, learn, remember, and support one another. Through these public celebrations, families realize that remembrance, grief, and celebration are universal.

Celebrating Día de Muertos anchors families in ritual, purpose, and meaning. It’s a reminder that despite daily demands, carving out time to reflect and connect to our roots enriches emotional resilience.