In the two weeks or so leading-up to Day of the Dead, local markets across Mexico begin to fill-up with colorful stalls selling all the items traditionally needed to fully dress a family ofrenda. Small clay pots containing samples of foods like corn, spices, chiles, and confectionery are common as are clay cups or mugs containing the deceased’s favorite beverages-which could include sodas, chocolate, coffee, tea, atole as well as tequila, pulque, or mezcal, etc.Įvery altar will include Mexican orange marigold flowers called cempaxochitl -colloquially referred to as flor de muerto- as well as Pan de Muerto, bread of the dead. For adults, it’s traditional to leave samples of the food and drink they especially enjoyed (or the ingredients which make them). In remembrance of deceased children, toy and game sets, cuddly toys, as well as candy and snacks they enjoyed may be placed here. Special care is given to the composition of this layer by those creating the ofrendas, giving due consideration to the important things their loved ones most enjoyed during the course of their lifetime. The second tier of the altar is the most personal, furnished with a thoughtful selection of ofrendas for the remembered deceased. the third tier will feature lit candles, and some people add a washbasin and a towel so that the spirits of the deceased may refresh themselves upon arrival at the altar.Personal ornaments, and/or the deceased’s favorite food or confection will also be present here, as will Pan de Muerto the second tier will contain the ofrendas: toys are usually offered for deceased children, and bottles of tequila, mezcal, or atole for deceased adults.the top tier contains photographs of the remembered deceased as well as religious statues or symbols, especially that of La Virgen Guadalupe.Traditionally, altars featuring ofrendas will be composed of three layers: These altars are an art form and personal expression of love towards one’s family members now passed they are not intended for worshiping but instead for the purpose of remembrance and celebration of life. La Ofrenda: the altar of offeringĪ centerpiece of the traditions that surround the occasion is the creation and open placement of an ofrenda -an altar of offering- that usually manifests as an altar in family homes, although some ofrendas are also arranged at local cemeteries, and in public spaces including parks and plazas. Traditionally, November 1st honors deceased children and November 2nd honors deceased adults. The first and second days of November mark one of the most important cultural and religious events on Mexico’s annual calendar: Day of the Dead, a festival that emphasizes remembrance of past lives and celebration of the continuity of life.
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