Last Friday, Discovery Green in Houston became a lively tribute to El Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.
This cherished Mexican tradition invites people to honor and remember loved ones who have passed, blending community and culture with heartfelt celebration.
The event drew a diverse crowd, united by vibrant displays, traditional music, and lovingly crafted altars.
Celebrated from October 31 to November 2, El Día de los Muertos centers on remembrance and family, unlike Halloween, which often focuses on the eerie.
In Mexican and Latin American communities, it’s a time to celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed. Families build altars, or “ofrendas,” decorated with photos, favorite foods, and mementos, welcoming the spirits of their ancestors to join the celebration.
READ MORE: North Houston funeral home holds Dia De Los Muertos festival to honor loved ones who passed away
Legacy and family tradition
For Houstonian Rafael, attending the event was a way to pass on his family’s traditions to his children.
“This was always a big celebration for us growing up. My parents and grandparents taught us that in Mexico,” he said. “Now, it’s important to me to share that with my kids.”
Rafael’s family places food and drinks on their altar each year, an offering to their departed family members.
“They’d tell us they come back and enjoy a little bit with us each year,” he shared.
A celebration of love, memory, and community
The Day of the Dead celebration at Discovery Green provided a unique space for families to share stories, remember loved ones, and embrace their heritage together.
In a city as diverse as Houston, this gathering was a powerful reminder of the strength found in honoring tradition and the importance of passing these customs to future generations.
Looking forward: El Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe
As the city celebrates Día de los Muertos, Houstonians look ahead to another significant event: El Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe on December 12.
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This day, which honors Mexico’s patron saint, will see processions, prayer, and vibrant festivities across Houston, marking another opportunity for the community to come together in faith and cultural pride.
For many who attended, Día de los Muertos at Discovery Green was a powerful celebration of memory and love—a beautiful reminder to honor the past while sharing tradition with future generations.