The TCU Department of Spanish & Hispanic Studies is carrying out its annual tradition of honoring the dead this month.

The department set up an altar as part of the Día de Los Muertos holiday that occurs from Oct. 31 – Nov. 2.

Students can participate in commemorating the holiday by bringing pictures or notes of their deceased loved ones to the altar. There is also a traditional sweet Mexican bread for snacking and the option to color masks at the altar.

The holiday has its origins in Mexico and allows people to spiritually reunite with the souls of the dead by celebrating with food, drinks and music.

“I like this idea of not separating death from life,” Dr. Irina Mozuliova, a Spanish 1 instructor, said. “So everything comes together.”

This tradition has been carried on for more than 17 years at TCU, said Spanish 2 instructor Dr. Karla O’Donald. O’Donald said she hopes students will take advantage of the opportunity to learn more about Mexican-American culture.

“It helps us start conversations about how much deeper our cultural roots are,” O’Donald said.

The exhibit is up now on the first floor of Scharbauer Hall and will remain on display through Nov. 2.