Spanish-speaking traditions continue during Dia de los Muertos in Kern

On November 1, 2024By Littum

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — When the marigolds bloom and candles are lit, many Hispanics knew it was time to set up the altar.

“They didn’t really teach us, they did it subconsciously, you know… it was always like, ‘help me with the branches, help me put the fruit, help me cook,'” said Gladys Flores, with Centro De Unidad Popular Benito Juarez.

Flores sets up a native Oaxacan altar for the first time at Historic Union Cemetery for the traditional Day of the Dead celebration.

“In my community, from the Mixteco community, it doesn’t really have many, many steps,” Flores said.

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Altars with seven tiers symbolize the seven steps to heaven, and altars with only three tiers symbolize heaven, earth and purgatory.

Flores puts holy water and copal incense to guide her loved ones to her altar at home. It doesn’t matter how you make your altar, as long as it doesn’t lack the most important thing.

“It could be very small, but you put the love into it for the person who is gone,” Flores said.

A tradition that has gained popularity worldwide and welcomes everyone.

“It’s just so amazing,” Flores said. “To finally start to see our traditions, it’s being recognized and it’s also being celebrated here. This is for everyone.”

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