Día de los Muertos altars and celebrations open across the country from San Diego to New York

Marigolds are blooming in museums, gardens and libraries as communities get ready for Día de los Muertos on Nov. 1 and 2. Many events are already open to the public.

Coast to coast

San Diego is hosting monthlong altar exhibits and processions. The New York Botanical Garden is holding its own celebration with art and music. The Milwaukee Art Museum has set up a community ofrenda where visitors can add photos of loved ones. Mission San Juan Capistrano in California is displaying a Day of the Dead altar.

Libraries and stages

A library in Danvers, Massachusetts, welcomed families Wednesday with food and music and an interactive ofrenda. In Portland, Oregon, Milagro Theatre opened Marigolds y Memorias on Wednesday as part of its 31st annual Día de los Muertos celebration.

What the tradition means

The holiday began in Mexico and blends Indigenous customs with Catholic traditions. Families build altars with candles, favorite foods and bright orange cempasuchil flowers to welcome the spirits of loved ones for a visit. It is a joyful remembrance rather than a sad one.

Anyone who wants to take part can visit a public altar and add a photo or build a small ofrenda at home. Many events are free and welcome neighbors from every background.