Check out our first-ever digital Dia de los Muertos altar

Dia de los Muertos is upon us, and this year The News Tribune is committed to creating a community space to celebrate and honor our readers' departed loved ones.

Dia de los Muertos is a vibrant and colorful celebration that originated in Mexico but has now spread to many parts of the United States, including Washington state.

For most Americans, the death of a loved one is associated with grief and sadness, but for many Latinos, Dia de los Muertos represents a reversal of that expectation.

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional and indigenous celebration that honors and welcomes those who died in the physical world between October 27th and November 2nd.

Celebrations begin on October 27th when beloved pets that have passed away return to visit for 24 hours. The celebrations continue on November 1st and 2nd. The first day of November is known as All Saints Day, when the souls of deceased children can join their families. On the second day, the adult spirits return to their families for 24 hours.

The News Tribune's first digital Dia de los Muertos altar

We invited readers to share the names and photos of family, friends and/or pets along with a message or memory.

We received several submissions in both Spanish and English. We invite you to click through our digital offerings (below) to read messages from your loved ones.