Elements of dia de los muertos altar
Papel picado or tissue paper is crafted into intricate designs. As the paper blows in the wind it represents the echoes of ancestors. Photo by Christy Khoshaba

We offer you a guide to making your own for November 2.

Elements of dia de los muertos altar
Papel picado or tissue paper is crafted into intricate designs. As the paper blows in the wind it represents the echoes of ancestors. Photo by Christy Khoshaba
Photos are placed to pay homages to those who have passed. Photo by Christy Khoshaba
Each candle represents a past loved one and burns so that no darkness may appear. Photo by Christy Khoshaba

Light can work in the same way as a candle
Photo by Christy Khoshaba
Marigold flowers are known as “The flower of the dead” The bright yellow and orange flowers allow spirits to drift back. Photo by Christy Khoshaba
Fruit or favorite dishes offer nourishment to ancestors. Photo by Christy Khoshaba
Notes are reminders of love for their ancestors. Photo by Christy Khoshaba
Skulls are synonymous with this holiday. People also wear calacas or masks during their processions. Photo by Christy Khoshaba
You may offer anything extra loved ones enjoyed
like a game of Scrabble in this case.
Photo by Christy Khoshaba

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An enthusiast for all things culture, Christy looks for journalistic inspiration in ethnic art galleries and in graffitied alleyways. When she’s not people watching at the BART stations, she’s deciphering Spanish on the streets, observing men’s fashion trends and watching the Burberry adorned break dancer on 24th street.

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