BYU students celebrate Da de los Muertos

As students stepped into the Harold B. Lee Library this week, they were greeted by vibrant marigolds, calacas and colorful artwork all part of BYUs annual Da de los Muertos celebration.

This years event was larger than ever, blending a centuries-old Mexican tradition with the spirit of BYUs 150th anniversary.

This is actually our fourth year, but because of the BYU 150 anniversary, its a lot bigger, said Teresa Gomez, one of the BYU 150 ofrenda coordinators. Our hope is to create a sense of celebration and unity and belonging on campus.

That sense of belonging was visible throughout the displays. Students and library employees worked together for months to create the decorations, including murals and bean art, all designed and made by student employees.

It was to celebrate, but to be together, Gomez said.

At the center of the celebration stood the ofrenda, a colorful altar where visitors could leave notes or photos of loved ones who have passed.

I really liked the sticky-note board where it invites you to share a message to an ancestor, said student Emily Pattberg. I liked having that moment to reflect and think, what would I say to them?

For Pattberg, who moved from Minnesota to attend BYU, the event carried special meaning.

Family has always been a big part of my life, but its become even more meaningful now that Ive moved away, she said. Its sweet to have an opportunity here to reflect and feel connected to them.

Gomez said the celebration aligns with BYUs gospel-centered focus on eternal families and remembrance.

Everybody has someone they love who has passed, and this is a great way to share those feelings, to share the love, she said. It goes along with the gospel, because we believe this is not the end.

For the BYU community, Da de los Muertos serves as both a tribute and a reminder, honoring the past while celebrating the stories that continue to shape the present.

This celebration helps honor our past while uniting us through heritage and gratitude. In reflecting on our ancestors, we remember that their lives continue to shape our own story today.