Celebrate Día de los Muertos — Day of the Dead — Nov. 2-3, in Park City

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos Nov. 1 and 2. Photo: Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda by Nick Fewings via Unsplash

PARK CITY, Utah — The popularity of the Day of the Dead across the U.S. — celebrated this year on Nov. 2-3 — has been fueled by young Latinos eager to explore their cultural roots, as well as the growing Mexican and Central American population. The celebration encompasses a Mexican tradition that honors departed loved ones and embraces their lives.

Food, a key element of many Mexican holidays, plays a significant role in Día de los Muertos. And marigolds, butterflies, and skulls are common symbols associated with it.

Families build altars and prepare a deceased person’s favorite foods, which are left on the altar, known as an ofrenda (Spanish for an offering). When the family returns, they discover that the food has lost its flavor, a symbolic indication that the spirit of their deceased loved one has visited and enjoyed the feast.

To honor this occasion, a special sweet bread known as Pan de Muerto is baked and shared with family members. If you’re interested in trying Pan de Muerto, you can find numerous recipes online or visit Leonardo’s Market & Taqueria in Kimball Junction.

For those seeking an immersive experience, Dos Olas Cantina , 2417 W. High Mountain Road, in Park City, is hosting a Día de los Muertos celebration from through Saturday, Nov. 4. They will be offering a $45, 3-course tasting menu, specialty cocktails, and a community ofrenda.

In addition, the Park City Library will have an ofrenda where community members can share memories or create drawings of their loved ones. The library ofrenda will be available until Nov. 3.