Move over Halloween, Day of the Dead home decor is coming on strong

Move over Halloween, Day of the Dead home decor is coming on strong

Marigolds (cempasuchil). Mexican folk paper art (papal picado). Votive candles. Sugar skulls (calaveras). Smiling skeletons (Las Catrinas). All are nudging their way alongside familiar October images of pumpkins, ghosts and scarecrows as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) decor gains ground on traditional fall home accessories.

From shower curtains to mouse pads, pillows to planters, there seems to be no end to the designs. Wildly colorful and quirky for some, but deeply meaningful for others, the decor scheme has become increasingly popular. According to the National Retail Federation, consumers are expected to spend a record $9.1 billion on items related to October fun. Candy and costume purchases, of course, top the list, but not far behind are home and party decorations. Halloween may mean monster sales, but Day of the Dead (celebrated November 1 and 2) is coming on strong.

The observance dates to the ancient Aztecs, but also has ties to All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. It represents a time to remember loved ones and traditions. For many, it’s become a holiday of sorts no matter their ancestry and the home furnishings industry has noticed.

“Pier 1 Imports began offering decorative items to help our customers celebrate and observe Dia de los Muertos a few years ago. Just like with other seasonal events and holidays, we add, refresh and refine our assortment of Dia de los Muertos products to help our customers find everything they need to create a curated, customized look for their homes,’’ said Katelyn Carroll, Pier 1 Imports media relations specialist. 

This year, the company’s Dia de los Muertos assortment includes bright colors, glitter and hand-beaded details. “Sugar skulls or Calaveras have become iconic Day of the Dead decorations. We also offer tabletop items, including beaded table runners adorned with bright flowers and festive drink ware to help our customers celebrate with others during this important time,’’ Carroll said.

Some homes celebrate Halloween while others opt for Day of the Dead, but there are those who do a bit of both.

For Frank and Cathy Garcia of Claremont, the observance is personal. Both build altars remembering loved ones who have passed. The latest one contains photos, marigolds, votive candles, an ear of corn and miniature figurines with birds. But their home is filled with art objects, many depicting scenes from Day of the Dead, that remain up all year.