Observed annually, the celebration combines indigenous Aztec rituals with Catholic traditions introduced by Spanish colonizers. It is a multi-day holiday focused on family and friends gathering to pray for and remember loved ones who have died. The occasion is marked with vibrant decorations, including altars (ofrendas) adorned with marigolds, sugar skulls, and the favorite foods of the deceased. This observance takes on a unique character in the southern Baja California peninsula, influenced by the region’s specific cultural blend and proximity to both the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California.
This commemoration offers a powerful opportunity to connect with ancestors and maintain cultural heritage. It provides comfort to those grieving and strengthens community bonds through shared traditions. The rituals create a space for reflection on mortality and the cycle of life, offering a perspective distinct from typical Western views on death. Historically, it has served as a form of resistance and cultural preservation, allowing indigenous beliefs to survive and adapt within a dominant culture.
