Nov 02, 2021
Day of the Dead 2021
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Mexico’s Indigenous communities have long practiced the tradition of honoring death as part of the cyclical nature of life and reconnecting families with deceased loved ones. Today’s Doodle celebrates a holiday handed down from the nation’s Indigenous ancestors—Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), an annual celebration of life in honor of those that have passed.
The Aztec people, who are from what is today central Mexico, are believed to be the first to celebrate the Day of the Dead by using skulls to honor their dead over 3,000 years ago. Skull symbology has remained an essential element of the day’s celebrations, often seen in the form of colorful calaveras de azúcar (sugar skulls) or paper maché calaveras (skulls) laid on altars in family homes to welcome the spirits of the departed. In today's Doodle artwork, a family member drops marigold petals for loved ones to follow home.
Although many common themes connect Mexican communities celebrating the Day of the Dead, each region across the nation observes the holiday with a unique spin, as cultural traditions continue to evolve every year.
iFeliz Día de los Muertos, México!
Early concepts of the Doodle below
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More