Explore the Ofrenda!

The Mexican culture has a unique view of death that incorporates many traditions from indigenous people and is ultimately about celebrating life. Every year on Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) many Mexican households display an Ofrenda, or “Alter” to honor and remember their ancestors. The Ofrenda contains gifts that represent the four elements; earth, water, wind and fire.

 

Hover over the symbols to learn more about what they mean

 
Dogs The color and scent of the Marigolds guide the spirits to the Ofrenda and are sometimes known as the “el flor de los muertos" or the "flower of the dead. The color and scent of the Marigolds guide the spirits to the Ofrenda and are sometimes known as the “el flor de los muertos" or the "flower of the dead. The Calavera, or "Sugar Skull" is an ornately decorated representation of a skull. It usually features flowers, animals, and other decorations. It is meant to remind us of the cyclical nature of life. Pictures of our loved ones are placed on the ofrenda to help us remember them. La Catrina is the most recognizable symbols of Dia de los Muertos celebrations. The Aztecs believed that a goddess of death protected their departed loved ones and helped them in the afterlife. The Mexican tradition borrowed this tradition. She was made popular in the early 1900’s by artist José Guadalupe Posada and has become a strong symbol of the Day of the Dead. Many women paint their faces and dress in elegant outfits to honor her. She reminds us all to live as our true selves! Monarch butterflies migrate each year to Mexico and usually begin arriving within days of Dia de los Muertos. It is believed that these Monarchs carry the souls of our departed loved ones back home. Monarch butterflies migrate each year to Mexico and usually begin arriving within days of Dia de los Muertos. It is believed that these Monarchs carry the souls of our departed loved ones back home. The favorite foods and beverages of our departed loved ones, such as this apple, are often placed on the ofrenda to quench their hunger and thirst after their long journey. They represent the elements of earth and water. Personal items of those who have passed, such as this watch, are often placed on the ofrenda. Candles, which are sometimes arranged in the form of a cross, represent the element of fire and are lit to help our departed loved ones find their way home. Papel Picados arose from the Aztec traditions of chiseling images into bark. During Dia de los Muertos they are cut into patterns of skulls and strung around the ofrenda to represent the element of air. Alebrijes - These fantastical pieces of art are called Alebrijes and they were created in the 1930s by Pedro Linares. Linares fell ill and had a dream of these magical creatures. When he awoke, he created a truly unique Mexican art form. They can be found everywhere in Mexico and are often associated with the Day of the Dead."