The first day of the celebration honors the dead who were under 18 and unmarried. The second day honors the dead adults.

To honor the children they usually offer toys that the child liked, on the altar. Other things put on the altar are pictures of the deceased, their favorite food and drink, and sometimes pillows are left out so the dead can rest after their long journey back.

Marigolds are the offered flower of choice. It is believed that the marigold attracts the souls of the dead to the altars so that they can hear the prayers being said for them.

Favorite foods and sugar skulls are left for the dead as a popular offering. Also their favorite drink is left out.

Families gather in the graveyard s to dance sing and pray for the dead. Many people will wear shells on their clothes and dance. It is believed that the noise from the shells will wake the dead and they will come to hear the prayers said for them.