Families across North Texas gathered at cemeteries over two days to mark Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. They decorated gravesites with altars, orange marigolds, favorite foods and music.
At Laurel Oaks Memorial Park in Balch Springs, families and friends paused in silence or gathered to mariachi music. The holiday is rooted in Mexican and Catholic traditions and falls on All Souls' Day. It marks the temporary return of loved ones who have died. Marigolds, known as the flower of the dead, are believed to help guide their spirits home.
Joshua Ferrer said he visits the resting place of his brother Brandon each November. Brandon died at birth. "There's some loved ones you never got the chance to meet, but you feel a little closer," Ferrer said.
Emily Bearden, CEO and president of Laurel Oaks Funeral Home & Memorial Park, said the event is family-friendly and includes vendors, mariachi bands and face painters.