Local traditions vary during the celebration of the Day of the Dead as communities incorporate unique rituals and customs reflective of their heritage. While core elements include altars, offerings, and remembrance of deceased loved ones, specific practices differ by region. In Oaxaca, for instance, elaborate altars adorned with marigolds and papel picado are common, while in other areas, calacas (skeleton figures) symbolize the cycle of life. Festivals often include parades, music, and food, allowing families to honor their ancestors while shaping a collective cultural identity.