what do marigolds have to do with day of the dead?

Marigolds, known as "cempasúchil" in Mexico, play a central and symbolic role in the Day of the Dead celebration. Their bright orange and yellow hues are believed to represent the sun and illuminate the path for the spirits of the deceased as they return to the world of the living. The strong scent of marigolds is thought to guide and attract the souls to the altars (ofrendas) prepared for them, helping create a pathway from cemeteries or homes to the altar. Beyond decoration, marigolds symbolize the fragility and beauty of life, serving as a bridge between the living and the dead during this tradition. The flower's historical and spiritual importance traces back to Aztec times, where it was sacred and closely tied to gods of death and the sun. Families use marigold petals to form paths and crosses that cleanse and guide the spirits, reinforcing their connection to those who have passed.