Celebrate Day of the Dead with These 10 Bookish Activities

As the vibrant colors of marigolds brighten the fall season and the sweet scent of sugar skulls fills the air, Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) invites us to honor and remember our loved ones in beautiful and meaningful ways. For those of us who love books and storytelling, this rich tradition offers the perfect opportunity to blend culture and creativity with reading.

If you want to celebrate Day of the Dead with a literary twist, here are 10 bookish activities that will enrich your celebration and inspire your heart and mind.

1. Read Books Inspired by Day of the Dead

Immerse yourself in novels, poetry, and folklore that explore the themes and legends of Día de los Muertos and Mexican culture. This deepens appreciation and understanding of the holiday’s significance.

2. Create a Day of the Dead-themed Reading Nook

Set up a cozy reading nook adorned with your favorite books alongside candles, colorful marigolds, and photos of beloved authors or literary characters who have inspired you. 

3. Organize a Day of the Dead Book Discussion

Host a book club gathering—virtual or in person—to discuss books centered on remembrance, death, and celebration. Sharing perspectives makes the experience even more meaningful.

4. Write Your Own Memoir or Tribute

Inspired by Day of the Dead customs, write personal stories or tribute pieces honoring loved ones, real or fictional. This is a heartfelt way to connect memories with the art of storytelling.

5. Make Sugar Skull Bookmarks

Craft your own bookmarks decorated like traditional sugar skulls—using paper, paints, or embroidery. These make wonderful gifts or keepsakes to mark your favorite reads. I get my bookmark designs from Creative Fabrica. Click the image to go there. I think they offer 10 free downloads at the time I am writing this.

6. Host a Day of the Dead-themed Poetry Reading

Gather friends or family to read poetry by Mexican and Latin American poets or works exploring themes of loss, love, and memory. Poetry’s rhythm deepens the emotional connection to the holiday.

7. Explore Folklore and Mythology Books

Dive into collections of ghost stories, legends, and myths linked to Day of the Dead. These tales offer both chills and cultural insight perfect for the season.

8. Create Literary Calavera (Skull) Poetry

Try your hand at calavera poems—humorous, rhyming epitaphs traditionally written for Day of the Dead. Write lighthearted verses about favorite fictional characters or authors. Learn to write calavara poetry

9. Design Day of the Dead-inspired Book Covers or Journals

Use colorful markers, digital art programs, or craft supplies to decorate your journals or book covers inspired by the vivid Day of the Dead imagery. A quick search on Pintrest will give you a ton of inspiration.

10. Share Day of the Dead Book Recommendations on Social Media

Celebrate community and culture by posting your favorite Day of the Dead-themed books online. Invite others into the celebration through bookish inspiration.

Whether creating, reading, or sharing, these bookish activities offer a unique way to honour Day of the Dead traditions through the magic of stories. Celebrate with heart, creativity, and connection this festive season.

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