A Sacred Space for All
Community Ofrendas
A communal altar where all are welcome to honor, remember, and celebrate those who came before us.
Understanding the Tradition
What Is an Ofrenda?
An ofrenda — meaning "offering" in Spanish — is a sacred altar built to welcome the spirits of deceased loved ones during Día de los Muertos. Rooted in pre-Columbian Aztec tradition and enriched by centuries of Mexican Catholic influence, the ofrenda is not a shrine of mourning but a celebration of life and love.
According to tradition, the boundary between the living and the dead thins during the first days of November. The ofrenda — with its photographs, marigolds, candles, food, and personal objects — creates a path that guides the spirits of the deceased back to visit their families.
Our community ofrenda is built collectively — every photograph placed, every candle lit, every marigold laid is an act of love that makes the altar grow.
Sacred Elements
What to Bring
All are welcome to add to the community ofrenda. Here are the traditional elements you may bring.
Photographs
Photos of your loved ones are the heart of the ofrenda. Bring printed photographs — any size — to place on the altar.
Cempasúchil (Marigolds)
The bright orange marigold is the flower of the dead. Its scent is said to guide spirits back to the living world.
Candles & Copal
Candles light the path for returning spirits. Copal incense purifies the space and carries prayers to the ancestors.
Offerings (Ofrendas)
Food, water, personal objects, and favorite items of the deceased are placed to welcome and nourish the returning spirits.
Traditional Structure
The Three Levels
A traditional ofrenda is built in three tiers, each representing a different realm of existence.
Primer Nivel
1st Level
Represents the earth and the living world. Decorated with a cloth, marigold petals, and a photograph of the deceased.
Segundo Nivel
2nd Level
Holds food, water, and the favorite items of the deceased — sustenance for the journey between worlds.
Tercer Nivel
3rd Level
The highest level, closest to the spirit world. Holds candles, copal incense, and a cross or sacred symbol.
Bring Your Loved Ones to the Ofrenda
The community ofrenda is open throughout all three days of the festival. Bring a photograph and join us in this sacred act of remembrance.