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

Each fall, families across Mexico and beyond gather to honor loved ones who have passed with colorful traditions, music, food, and flowers. This heartfelt celebration, known as Día de los Muertos — or the Day of the Dead — takes place on November 1st and 2nd and blends ancient Aztec customs with Catholic influences introduced by Spanish colonists. At Salt Lake City Florist & Flower Delivery, we’re proud to celebrate this meaningful tradition by offering beautiful marigold arrangements and vibrant seasonal flowers that capture the spirit of remembrance and renewal.

The History and Origins of Día de los Muertos

Día de los Muertos traces back more than 3,000 years to the Aztecs and other Mesoamerican civilizations who viewed death as a continuation of life. Festivals were held to honor the goddess Mictecacihuatl, “The Lady of the Dead.” When Spanish colonists arrived in the 16th century, these rituals merged with Catholic All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days — creating the joyful, family-centered celebration we know today.

Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Día de los Muertos is not a day of mourning, but one of celebration — honoring loved ones through food, art, music, and, most beautifully, flowers.

Marigolds: The Flower of the Dead

The marigold, or cempasúchil, is the most iconic flower of Día de los Muertos. Often called the “flower of the dead,” marigolds are said to help guide spirits back to the world of the living with their bright orange and gold colors and strong fragrance. The sun-like hue of the marigold symbolizes warmth, life, and renewal — while its petals are scattered along paths leading to family altars, or ofrendas, to help loved ones find their way home.

At Salt Lake City Florist & Flower Delivery, our floral designers incorporate marigolds into stunning Día de los Muertos-inspired arrangements, bringing together tradition, beauty, and heartfelt meaning. These vibrant blooms remind us that love never fades — it simply blossoms in a different form.

Flowers and Their Symbolism in Día de los Muertos

While marigolds are the star of the celebration, other flowers also hold deep meaning during this special time:

• Chrysanthemums: Represent peace, respect, and remembrance.
• Roses: Symbolize eternal love and connection.
• Baby’s Breath: Adds softness and purity to remembrance bouquets.

Together, these flowers create colorful, heartfelt displays that celebrate life, love, and the enduring bond between generations.

Celebrate Tradition with Marigolds and Seasonal Flowers

Whether you’re decorating a traditional ofrenda or simply embracing the beauty of fall, Salt Lake City Florist & Flower Delivery is here to help you honor this meaningful celebration. Our fall flower collection features marigolds, roses, and seasonal blooms — each handcrafted by our talented floral designers with care and purpose.

With same-day flower delivery throughout Salt Lake City and all of Salt Lake County, it’s easy to send flowers that carry deep meaning and radiant beauty.

Order Día de los Muertos Flowers Online at saltlakecityflorist.com

Celebrate the season and honor loved ones with Día de los Muertos flower arrangements from www.saltlakecityflorist.com. Whether you’re creating a remembrance altar, attending a gathering, or sending a gift of love and respect, Salt Lake City Florist & Flower Delivery brings warmth, artistry, and tradition to every bouquet.

💛 Let marigolds light the way this Día de los Muertos — a celebration of life, memory, and everlasting love.