Families, organizations, schools and businesses in Eagle Pass have set up colorful altars, called ofrendas, to honor relatives and friends who have died. The altars include photographs, candles, marigolds, papel picado, favorite foods and personal belongings.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is observed annually on November 1 and 2. The tradition combines Indigenous customs with Catholic observances tied to All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day, according to the story.
Traditional observances hold that the bright orange marigolds, known as cempasúchil, help guide the spirits of departed loved ones home. Candles are used to represent light, hope and remembrance.