10/29/2024
Ofrenda – The Offering
A very important part of Día de Mu***os is the altar, or ofrenda – the offering. The ofrenda holds symbolism from both native traditions and Catholic beliefs. It’s not for worshipping the dead, but for honoring them.
Traditionally built inside the home, the altar can be as big or small as the family can accommodate. Each altar is unique, but all have distinct aspects which hold different symbolic meanings. Depending on the family’s needs, the altar can have two to seven levels, representing the different stages of life and the afterlife. Each level is covered with a tablecloth and decorated with papel picados – artistically cut tissue paper that represents the wind. A photo of the deceased is placed in the very center of the altar and is surrounded by his or her favorite things – such as food, drinks, candy and toys for the children.
