How to Throw a Dia de los Muertos Party

Most often observed in Latin countries—especially Mexico, Brazil and the Philippines—Dia de Los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) is a joyous celebration of deceased ancestors. Curiously enough, this holiday originated with the ancient Aztecs in the first millennium A.D. The Day of the Dead is actually celebrated on 2 days in a row—Nov. 1 (All Saints' Day on the Christian calendar) and Nov. 2 (All Souls' Day).

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Lively Latin music
• Altar: table and boxes
• Papier-mache headstones
• Chocolate skulls, coffins, vampires etc.
• Mementos of the deceased
• Ofrendas: soaps, washcloths and hard candies

1. Stock up on "ofrendas”—traditional offerings given to the souls of the deceased. In Latin countries, ofrendas include items a departed soul can use to “clean up” after their long journey from the afterlife. So mix in some small bars of hotel soap and a few washcloths with an assortment of hard candy.
   
2. Set up an altar on which guests can place their ofrendas. This doesn’t have to be a fancy affair—a small table with one or two shelves or boxes piled on top will do just fine.
   
3. If you’re genuinely observing the memory of a departed loved one, place pictures of this person around the altar, as well as small items that remind you of him or her. These can include letters or articles of clothing.
   
4. Prepare some traditional Dia de Los Muertos treats. Popular Mexican choices are candy skulls and chocolate coffins. You can buy these sweets at a specialty store or make them at home. If you can't locate a skull or coffin mold, any creepy Halloween mold (ghosts, vampires etc.) is a good second choice.
5. For atmosphere, build your own headstones out of papier-mache. For a small party, one medium-sized headstone should be enough. If you’re inviting a lot of people, set up several headstones in your own little “graveyard.”
   
6. Gather up a selection of Latin music. Remember, despite its name, the Day of the Dead is a very festive and upbeat time. So a spirited Mariachi band is better choice than a slow Spanish balladeer. Dark and moody music is not a great choice either.
7. Tell your guests what they’re celebrating ahead of time. Although it’s similar, the Day of the Dead isn’t quite the same thing as Halloween. So your friends do not have to dress up in costumes (although it’s certainly not discouraged, either!).