SAN FRANCISCO — The glittering celebration of Day of the Dead is more than a festive occasion; it is a reflection on life, mortality and the ancestors who came before us, bridging history and the present. Observed for over 3,000 years, this traditional Mexican celebration now embraces both ancient and modern elements, providing a common space to honor loved ones.

Rosa de Anda, executive director of the Marigold Project, originally from Mexico, reimagined aspects of the Day of the Dead to better resonate with her community. “What were we doing the ceremony for, if not to reflect the community and its challenges?” For Rosa, the celebration is a way to connect individuals on personal and collective journeys.

South San Francisco-based artist Danielle Revives turns her studio into a haven for Day of the Dead creations. “It may look like a storage unit, but it’s not,” she laughs.

From altars to wreaths honoring figures like Frida Kahlo and her grandmothers, every piece Danielle makes has cultural significance. Her “Hungry Girl,” a papier-mâché skull, is “hungry for messages to your lover.”

Guests are invited to place notes inside the skull, which are later offered in a ceremonial burning, connecting the living with those who have passed.

Rosa reminds us that the spirit of the Day of the Dead is not limited to November 2nd. “Take a moment each day to appreciate the joy of being alive,” she says.

The holiday’s message is universal: life and death are intertwined, and remembering those who came before us enriches our lives in profound ways.