Day of the Dead: history, meaning, and the cuisine that connects the living and the dead

Discover the origins, symbolism, and flavors of Mexico’s Day of the Dead — a living celebration of memory and tradition.

The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most iconic traditions, recognized by UNESCO in 2008 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Far from a sad remembrance, it is a celebration of life, love, and memory, where families gather to honor their departed through flowers, candles, music, and food.

A fusion of worlds the roots of the Day of the Dead trace back to pre-Hispanic civilizations —Mexica, Purépecha, Zapotec, and Maya— who believed death was part of the natural cycle of life. They believed the souls returned each year to visit their loved ones.

With the arrival of the Spanish, these beliefs merged with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, creating the syncretic celebration we know today.

Flavors of remembrance

Food lies at the heart of the Day of the Dead. The traditional Pan de Muerto, with its bone-shaped decorations and orange blossom aroma, symbolizes the sweetness of life and eternity. Alongside it, mole, tamales, hot chocolate, and seasonal fruits fill the altars with color and symbolism.

Each element serves a purpose:

copal incense purifies,

salt protects,

candles light the way,

and marigold flowers guide the souls home.

As Mexican writer Octavio Paz once said: “The Mexican doesn’t fear death; he caresses it, celebrates it, and even plays with it.”

Living tradition In Mexico City, the celebration comes alive through parades, monumental altars, and vibrant aromas. At home, families build altars, cook their loved ones’ favorite dishes, and share stories that keep memory alive.

At Xaatha, we honor this legacy through our culinary experience “La Cocina de los Muertos,” where guests learn to make traditional Pan de Muerto, sauces, and artisanal chocolate, while exploring the cultural and historical meaning behind this sacred tradition.

Sources

·       UNESCO. Day of the Dead in Mexico, Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, 2008.

·       INAH. Death and Its Representation in Mesoamerica, 2019.

·       Paz, Octavio. The Labyrinth of Solitude. Fondo de Cultura Económica, 1950.

·       López Austin, Alfredo. The Human Body and Ideology: Ancient Nahua Conceptions. UNAM, 1980.

·       Broda, Johanna. Ancient Mexican Rituals. UNAM, 1991.

Live the tradition. Cook the history. Celebrate the memory.

Book your 'Cocina de los Muertos' experience at www.xaatha.com and taste the living essence of Mexico.