Day of the Dead, or Día de Muertos, is a Mexican celebration that honors past family members and allows them to visit the world of the living to reunite with loved ones during this time. The marigold is the most popular flower in the Day of the Dead celebrations. Often called “flowers of the dead,” cempasúchil, or flor de muerto, these bright orange and yellow flowers’ fragrance is said to attract souls to the altar. Their bright and cheery color also celebrate life instead of feeling bitter about death. Real or paper marigolds appear on altars, crosses, and garlands — and sometimes, people even create a marigold path from their home to the altar.

Source: Good Housekeeping