What Do Sugar Skulls Symbolize in Dia de Muertos?

Around Día de Muertos, sugar skulls (calaveras) serve as bright, joyful reminders to keep loved ones close. You’ll often see them on altars or shared as decorated treats, sometimes personalized with names. La Catrina is a related icon—she’s not a sugar skull, but she’s one of the most beloved Día de Muertos figures, a female skeleton symbol that blends remembrance with wit and elegance.

For a cocktail nod to the tradition, explore our Catrina cocktail recipe.