How to Throw the Perfect Day of the Dead Party

Also known as Dia de Los Muertos, Dia de Los Difuntos, and All Souls Day, this holiday honors the deceased by celebrating their lives and the memories they created with family and friends. 

Celebrated throughout Mexico and Latin America but popular in the United States, this event offers an excellent opportunity for families to gather and have fun by making the passing of loved ones a time for celebration rather than grief. Traditionally, altars are created for those who have passed with photos, flowers, candles, and food. November 1st & 2nd are great times to eat good food, share stories and embrace the gift of life. 

This year, celebrate with churros! These fried pastries are traditionally made to be eaten during celebrations (although we believe there is always a reason to celebrate with churros!) They are typically seen as a tricky treat to make but the San Diablo Fiesta in a Box makes it easier than baking a cake! The Fiesta in a Box kit comes with a just-add-water pre-mixed churro dough packet, dulce de leche filling, cinnamon sugar, and the star of the show: the San Diablo Churro Maker. You can easily include your children in the kitchen because the churro maker is super simple and safe to use. Fill the churros with the dulce de leche filling and top with cinnamon sugar for delicious, traditional, Day of the Dead treats. 

For decorations, consider Papel Picado, colorful paper banners that you can make at home with tissue paper or easily purchase at a party store. Sugar skulls, maracas, and flower crowns are other fun ways to get into the fiesta spirit. Make your event as elaborate or as simple as you’d like; you can include your deceased loved ones in small or big ways (such as making an altar or hanging their picture up) or just use the holiday as an excuse to enjoy churros with family and friends!

The Disney movie, “Coco” is a great way to teach children about the holiday and it reminds all of us- young and young at heart- that the Day of the Dead is a joyous occasion, not a day of sadness. 

Start a new tradition with your family this year by throwing a fun and festive Dia de Los Muertos party!

Check out San Diablo's instagram for more holiday ideas!