Day of the Dead Party Planning in Ashburn
Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, is a Mexican holiday that focuses on the remembrance of family members and friends who have died. Those who celebrate Day of the Dead will come together with their loved ones who are still alive to pray for and support the spiritual journeys of those who have passed on. It is a public holiday in Mexico and is also associated with Halloween, since it takes place around the same time. However, the holiday used to occur at the start of summer each year.
Hiring a Day of the Dead Party Planner
With so many details that go into planning a Day of the Dead party, consider hiring a party planner to make your event more successful with less stress.
Day of the Dead Decorations
Decorations are some of the most important aspects of any party, and a Day of the Dead celebration is no exception. It's important to create an altar within your home or other venue, since the celebration typically includes prayers and remembrance for those who have died. Other decorations you might add to your party include painted skulls, gravestones and other cemetery-themed items, and things that are Mexican-themed such as cacti, Mexican flags, and sombreros. Monarch butterflies also symbolize death and life after death, so create a wreath with fake butterflies to decorate the door.
It's fun to have activities for your guests at the event. One restaurant in Chicago will give papier-mâché skulls to paint during its Day of the Dead celebration. You might also have paper or other art supplies available for children to create artwork that honors their deceased loved ones.
Day of the Dead Menu
Start your party with some "Day of the Bread," or "Pan de Muerto," which is a popular menu item that you can form to look like bones when you bake it. Classic Mexican dishes such as tamales, tacos, burritos, and enchiladas are popular entrees at a Day of the Dead party, paired with beans, rice, and fresh tortillas. Help each guest satisfy a sweet tooth with dessert such as churros, skull-shaped sugar cookies they can decorate, or ginger-dead men, which are gingerbread cookies iced with white frosting to create a skeletal appearance.
Don't forget the cocktails! Tequila is a staple at any adult-friendly event, and adding seasonal flavors like pear, lime, or pumpkin can take your beverage menu to the next level. If you're serving shots, look for skull shot glasses that will match the décor.
Plan Your Ashburn Day of the Dead Party with Cascades Celebration and Corporate Event Center
Hosting a party is always a big task, putting a lot of responsibility on your shoulders. If you're planning a Dia de los Muertos party in Ashburn, our Day of the Dead planner at Cascades Celebration and Corporate Event Center can transform your venue into the perfect spot to honor your loved ones who have died. Your party planner will also create a menu and invitations and handle any details that may arise.