An ofrenda, a central component of Da de los Muertos celebrations, is a carefully constructed altar intended to honor deceased loved ones. These offerings serve as a tangible connection between the living and the departed, inviting spirits to return and partake in the remembrance. The arrangement often includes photographs, personal belongings, and favorite foods of the deceased, creating a personalized tribute.
The significance of creating these displays lies in the belief that they facilitate a reunion with those who have passed. These altars are more than mere decorations; they are expressions of love, remembrance, and a continuation of familial bonds. Rooted in ancient Mesoamerican traditions, the practice acknowledges the cyclical nature of life and death, maintaining a connection with ancestral heritage.