The Origins of Día de los Muertos and the Meaning of Marigolds

Each fall, families across Mexico and around the world honor loved ones who have passed with vibrant traditions, colorful altars, and beautiful flowers. This cherished celebration, known as Día de los Muertos or the Day of the Dead, takes place on November 1st and 2nd and blends ancient Aztec rituals with Catholic influences introduced during Spanish colonization. At Soderberg’s Florist & Flower Delivery in Minneapolis, MN, we celebrate this beautiful tradition by offering stunning marigold arrangements and vibrant floral displays that honor both life and remembrance.

The History and Origins of Día de los Muertos

Día de los Muertos has roots that stretch back more than 3,000 years to the Aztec Empire, where death was viewed not as an end, but as part of a continuous cycle of life. Ancient Mesoamerican cultures held month-long festivals to honor the goddess Mictecacihuatl, known as the “Lady of the Dead.” When Spanish colonists arrived in the 16th century, these indigenous traditions merged with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, creating the modern celebration we know today.

Now recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Día de los Muertos is a joyful and spiritual time to remember loved ones through food, music, art, and of course — flowers.

The Marigold: The Flower of the Dead

No flower is more closely associated with Día de los Muertos than the marigold, or cempasúchil. Known as the “flower of the dead,” marigolds are believed to guide the spirits of loved ones back to the world of the living with their vibrant color and strong fragrance. Their golden-orange hue represents the sun — a symbol of life and renewal — while their petals are used to create intricate paths, known as ofrendas, that lead souls home to their families’ altars.

At Soderberg’s Florist, we embrace the spirit of this tradition by featuring marigolds in our fall and remembrance floral arrangements. Their bright, cheerful blooms remind us that even in times of reflection, there is beauty and joy in celebrating those we love.

Flowers and Symbolism in Día de los Muertos

In addition to marigolds, families often decorate their altars and homes with other meaningful flowers:

• Chrysanthemums: Representing peace, respect, and honor.
• Roses: Symbolizing love and remembrance.
• Baby’s Breath: A delicate symbol of purity and everlasting connection.

Each flower plays a part in creating a vibrant and heartfelt tribute to those who came before us — a colorful bridge between the past and present.

Honor Loved Ones with Marigolds and Meaningful Blooms

Whether you’re creating a traditional ofrenda or simply want to celebrate the beauty and symbolism of the season, Soderberg’s Florist & Flower Delivery is here to help. Our expert floral designers craft Día de los Muertos-inspired arrangements featuring fresh marigolds, roses, and seasonal flowers — perfect for remembrance, reflection, and celebration.

With same-day flower delivery across Minneapolis and the Twin Cities, we make it easy to share beauty, honor loved ones, and celebrate life’s enduring connections.

Order Día de los Muertos Flowers Online at soderbergsflorist.com

Celebrate tradition and remembrance with chrysanthemum-filled bouquets and fall floral arrangements from www.soderbergsflorist.com. Whether you’re decorating an altar, attending a gathering, or sending flowers to someone special, Soderberg’s Florist & Flower Delivery brings warmth, meaning, and artistry to every bloom.

💛 Honor the past, celebrate the present, and let marigolds light the way — because love never fades, it only blossoms anew.