What do monarch butterflies represent on Day of the Dead?

Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of the deceased. It is a time to honor their memory, share stories, and offer gifts to their spirits. One of the most iconic symbols of this holiday is the monarch butterfly, which migrates to Mexico every year around the same time as Day of the Dead. But what do these beautiful insects represent on this special occasion?

The legend of the monarchs

According to a legend, the monarch butterflies are the souls of the departed who return to visit their loved ones. The legend says that the Aztecs, who believed in reincarnation, thought that the souls of warriors who died in battle would come back as hummingbirds and butterflies. When the Spanish colonizers arrived and imposed Christianity, the Aztecs adapted their beliefs and traditions to the new religion. They merged their celebration of the dead with the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, which fall on November 1st and 2nd. These are the dates when millions of monarchs arrive in Mexico from Canada and the United States, where they spend the summer.

The monarchs travel thousands of miles to reach their wintering grounds in the oyamel fir forests of Michoacán and Mexico State. They cluster on the branches of the trees, creating a stunning spectacle of orange and black. The locals believe that they are bringing messages from their ancestors and that they can hear their whispers in the wind. They welcome them with altars, flowers, candles, food, and music. They also visit the cemeteries and decorate the graves with marigolds, which are another symbol of Day of the Dead. The marigolds are said to guide the spirits with their bright color and scent.

The significance of the monarchs

The monarch butterflies represent more than just the souls of the dead. They also symbolize resilience, transformation, and hope. They endure a long and perilous journey across different climates and terrains, facing predators, storms, and human threats. They overcome these challenges with strength and grace, just like the Mexican people who have faced oppression, violence, and injustice throughout history.

The monarchs also undergo a remarkable metamorphosis from caterpillars to butterflies. They shed their old skin and emerge with new wings, ready to fly. This process mirrors the cycle of life and death, as well as the personal growth that humans experience in their lifetime. The monarchs teach us that change is inevitable and that we can embrace it with courage and optimism.

Finally, the monarchs inspire hope for a better future. They remind us that life is precious and fleeting, and that we should cherish every moment we have with our loved ones. They also show us that there is beauty and wonder in nature, and that we should protect it from harm. They are a symbol of harmony between humans and animals, between different cultures and beliefs, between life and death.

Experience Day of the Dead with MX Underground

If you want to witness the amazing phenomenon of the monarch butterflies and learn more about Day of the Dead, you should join one of our tours at MX Underground. We are a local company that offers authentic and immersive experiences in Mexico City and beyond. We will take you to the butterfly sanctuaries where you can see them up close and hear their stories. We will also show you how to celebrate Day of the Dead like a true Mexican, with altars, food, music, art, and more. You will discover the rich history and culture of this country, as well as its vibrant present and future.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see one of nature’s wonders and one of Mexico’s most beloved traditions. Book your tour today!