The art of Mexican sugar skulls
Also known as Calaveras, sugar skulls are the recognisable smiling skull faces that represent the souls of the deceased.
Sugar art dates back to the 17th century, and as there was a great deal of sugar in Mexico – a country at the time too poor to import more ornate decorations – it was quick to adopt the practice. There are a number of ready-made skulls that you can decorate, or have a go at making your own from scratch for some family fun.
In addition to seeing skulls on altars and celebratory floats, you’ll also see those celebrating the holiday sporting similar skull face paint. Again, you can either try this yourself, or purchase a mask for something slightly easier.
Flowers are highly symbolic to this holiday, and so many designs will often incorporate flowers such as the Marigold, or cempazuchitl, which is considered to be the flower of the dead. If you can’t find any marigolds to use, be sure to paint one onto your decorations, as it’s believed this flower acts as a guiding beacon to help the dead find their way home.