LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — When people think of Day of the Dead, they probably think of colorful altars and photos, but what many don’t realize is that pan de muerto is one of the most meaningful parts of the tradition.
In the early morning hours at 2 a.m., the ovens at Tricolor Bakery are already glowing. It’s a rigorous process, but owner Alejandro Jose Diaz said it’s always worth it in the end.
“We try to do our best, we give it our all and do our best,” Diaz said.
Bread carries deep symbolic meaning
Pan de muerto loaves are traditionally placed on altars to welcome the souls of loved ones home on Dia de los Muertos.
“On top of the bread it represents the bones of the dead,” Diaz said.
The sesame seeds also carry significance.
“And then the sesame seeds, they say, represent the tears that were shed for the dead,” Diaz said.
Busiest time of year for Mexican bakery
As a Mexican panaderia, Diaz said this is one of their busiest times of the year, a time when he and his team prepare the sweet bread with care and pride.
“Well, it’s a tradition from our Mexico, and people ask for it, so we prepare it here with all our hearts,” Diaz said.
Diaz said as an immigrant from Mexico, getting to share this tradition with his new home in Las Vegas has become something he looks forward to every year.
“I immigrated here the way everyone does, with the hopes to get ahead and have a better life,” Diaz said.
Keeping tradition alive for future generations
Although pan de muerto isn’t as popular today as it once was, Diaz said they’re determined to keep it alive for generations to come.
“We have our customs here, but then our children grow up here with different customs, so it’s being lost, but the people who still have that custom keep it going,” Diaz said.
Tricolor Bakery is serving pan de muerto daily until Dia de los Muertos on Nov. 2. The bakery is located at 1951 N Decatur Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89108.
Copyright 2025 KVVU. All rights reserved.
