Month: October 2024

One of Latin America’s unique traditions is Dia de los Muertos — Day of the Dead — celebrated on November 1st and 2nd.  It’s a time for families to honor and remember loved ones by creating ofrendas (altars) adorned with photos, candles, flowers, food and personal items of their departed.  Unlike Halloween, Dia de los Muertos is not about fear, but rather about celebrating life, love and memories.  Though it originates in Mexico, it’s also widely celebrated in Ecuador, Guatemala and El Salvador. Over the years Dia de los Muertos gained popularity in the United States, particularly California, Texas, and Arizona because of the proximity to Mexico.  For my October and final Culture Trip, I learned how to create an ofrenda. It’s fun and simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide. Choose a Location Find a dedicated space in your house such as a table or shelf. I put mine on top of a credenza in the family room.  Decide if you want to have multiple levels — tiered shelves to place items — or just one level. Traditional alters have three. I place my items on one level.  If choosing numerous levels here are suggestions of what to place on each: • The top level represents heaven, often holding religious symbols or images.  • The middle level represents the present and is where photos or items of the deceased are placed. • The bottom tier represents the underworld and may include elements such as candles and food.  Add a tablecloth or papel picados. The later are vibrant colored banners traditionally made of tissue paper. These represent the fragility of life. I use a simple, cream color runner on my credenza and hang the colorful streamers along the back of the altar. Decorate the Ofrenda A central element of an altar are