Day of the Dead: Ofrendas

The Day of the Dead (“Día de Muertos”) is one of the most iconic traditions of Mexican culture. It coincides with the Roman Catholic festival of All Saints Day on November 1 and All Souls Day on November 2.  

The tradition that holds the most meaning for those celebrating is the altar, or ofrenda in Spanish. The ofrenda is made for the souls of the deceased to come back and enjoy their worldly pleasures once more. We are showing our photos from a Day of the Dead festival in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Ofrendas often include skeletons and skulls, papel picado (cut paper), flowers, candles, photographs of the departed ones, and things they enjoyed during life including food.

Each element of any altar has a special symbolic meaning, explained in this sign.

Ofrendas are a wonderful way to celebrate and remember loved ones who have departed, and one of the reasons we so enjoy this festival.  Stay tuned for more inspiration from this holiday.

Image credits:  Photos were taken at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona in 2017.