More of a portal than a site of worship, ofrendas are intended to ‘welcome home’ the spirits of loved ones.
A Mexican festival that takes place between 31st October and 2nd November, 'Day of the Dead' is when families come together to pray for and remember lost relatives. Ofrendas (altars) are constructed in both public spaces and private homes, and are often richly decorated with pumpkins and squashes, marigolds, candles, and sugar skulls. More of a portal than a site of worship, ofrendas are intended to ‘welcome home’ the spirits of loved ones. Some cities, notably Oaxaca, also host costumed parades.