Altars and Catrinas: How Celebrities Are Set To Celebrate Día de Muertos

In Spanish

As Día de Muertos approaches, a wave of traditions handed down through generations is set to come back, particularly among families with Mexican roots. Celebrities, too, pay tribute to loved ones who have passed on, embracing iconic traditions like altars and Catrina makeup to honor the dead. Here we take a closer look at how some celebrities mark this meaningful occasion.

The Unmistakable Catrinas

Catrina makeup is an essential part of Día de Muertos celebrations, symbolizing the beauty of Mexican culture.

Singer Carlos Rivera, who recently released his song 'Calavera,' portraying death in a "poetic and beautiful" way, has collaborated with YouTuber and makeup artist Doris Jocelyn to mark the special occasion.

To bring the song's spirit to life, Rivera and Jocelyn transformed into Catrinas, showcasing detailed, realistic makeup. In a video shared on Doris's Instagram, the duo transitions from their natural looks to traditional Catrina style. Her makeup features intricate details, grounded in realism over fantasy.

Actress Maribel Guardia surprised fans by appearing as a glamorous Catrina along Mexico City's Paseo de la Reforma. Makeup artist Héctor GZ posted the process on Instagram, revealing Guardia's dramatic black-and-white makeup adorned with rhinestones.

She donned an elegant white dress, cape, and feathered hat for a unique photo session that showcased her respect for tradition.

Meanwhile, reigning Miss Universe Sheyniss Palacios will join in the tradition as part of a Catrina-themed gala on November 1, where contestants will dress as Catrinas to celebrate Mexican culture.

Altars, Food, and Tradition

A key aspect of Día de Muertos is the creation of altars dedicated to loved ones who have passed away. These altars are adorned with photographs, favorite foods, and drinks of the deceased, flowers, and pan de muerto. Tradition holds that the departed return on November 2 to receive the offerings left by their families.

TV host Andrea Legarreta shared her altar early on Instagram, showcasing photos of her late loved ones alongside skulls marked with their names, including her mother, grandparents, and other relatives.

Her post included heartfelt words, dedicating the altar to her "eternal loves" who live on in her heart and mind.

Actress Zuria Vega, while hosting Vogue's Día de Muertos Gala, also shared her family's celebration, explaining how her children delight in setting up their altar.

"I have two little ones, so we do a lot of celebrating, and they love arranging the altar with items that remind us of my father," she said, noting that Día de Muertos is a deeply honored tradition in her household.

Similarly, singer and actress Belinda, despite her Spanish roots, mentioned how her grandparents embraced Mexican culture and passed the tradition down to her. She honors them through an altar, playing their favorite song, 'Amor Eterno.'

Belinda also shared her love for the Disney film "Coco," which she calls "a classic," and, of course, indulging in pan de muerto.

Through these varied celebrations, we see how celebrities cherish their roots and remember loved ones, making Día de Muertos a truly heartfelt tradition.