One way to embrace the country’s unique customs is by commemorating the Day of the Dead with a traditional but personalized altar de muertos (ofrenda or altar to the deceased).
According to ancient beliefs, the souls of the dead return to earth for one day of the year, winding their way home once the sun passes its zenith on November first. This is the time for families to begin setting up the altar, laying out an offering laden with items intended to draw the departed to the world of the living, ease their journey and make them feel at home.
It should be understood that while certain general concepts usually apply, there is no strict formula for creating your own ofrenda de muertos. It may be dedicated to a dead relative, a friend, an admired personality or even a general group, say victims of cancer, or those who died in a terrorist attack. It is simply a matter of selecting someone or ones who have a particular significance to you and letting your imagination fly.
Here are the usual basics needed to mount a traditional Dia de Muertos offering:
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