This weekend, Mexican American families across the United States will gather to celebrate the Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos), a vibrant tradition honoring ancestors through altars, marigolds, and sugar skulls. While the holiday maintains its deep cultural roots, recent years have seen a shift towards commercialization, prompting discussions within the community about how to balance tradition and modernity.
Traditionally, Día de Muertos is an intimate family affair marked by the creation of home altars, or ofrendas, and visits to cemeteries where graves are decorated with flowers and offerings. Families often bring their deceased loved ones’ favorite foods and hire musicians to play cherished songs. Central to the celebration are skeletons, which symbolize the return of the deceased to the living world, creating a poignant connection between life and death.
Commercialization vs. Cultural Integrity
At an event held on October 25, 2025, at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago, Cesáreo Moreno, the museum’s chief curator, noted that the release of Disney’s animated film “Coco” in 2017 significantly boosted the visibility of Día de Muertos in the United States. Moreno explained, “Coco provided a way for people who do not belong to the Mexican American community to learn about the tradition and embrace its beauty. But it also made the celebration more marketable.”
As Día de Muertos gains popularity, it is often confused with Halloween, altering both its perception and the manner in which it is celebrated. Some families have opted for minimalist ofrendas, moving away from the colorful decorations that have long characterized the holiday. Moreno expressed concern, stating, “If people stop understanding what is at the heart of this tradition, that is what I am against.”
While some individuals appreciate the aesthetic of minimalism, others argue it detracts from the meaningful heritage of the celebration. Ana Cecy Lerma, a Mexican American from Texas, remarked, “If your reasoning is merely that you like how it looks, then I feel that’s losing a bit of the reason as to why we make altars.”
Preserving Cultural Significance
Concerns about cultural appropriation have also emerged as American businesses adapt Día de Muertos for commercial gain. Sehila Mota Casper, director of Latinos in Heritage Conservation, highlighted that major retailers now sell do-it-yourself ofrenda kits, focusing more on profit than on preserving cultural significance. “It’s beginning to get culturally appropriated by other individuals outside of our diaspora,” she commented.
Despite these challenges, individuals like Beth McRae, who has created altars since 1994, strive to honor the tradition respectfully. McRae collects authentic items from Mexico and emphasizes the importance of focusing on lost loved ones. “It’s done with respect and love, but it’s an opportunity to raise awareness for those unfamiliar with the culture,” she explained.
Furthermore, Salvador Ordorica, a first-generation Mexican American living in Los Angeles, believes that traditions should evolve to maintain relevance for younger generations. “I think it’s okay for traditions to change,” he said. “It’s a way to really keep that tradition alive as long as the core of the tradition remains in place.”
As Mexican American families prepare to honor their ancestors this weekend, the celebration of Día de Muertos continues to reflect a complex interplay between deep-rooted customs and the influences of contemporary society. The community’s efforts to navigate these changes highlight the importance of preserving cultural integrity while embracing the evolution of their traditions.
