Building an ofrenda is a beautiful way to honor loved ones during Día de Muertos. Each element— from candles to marigolds — carries meaning and helps guide the souls of the departed back to their loved ones. Whether this is an ongoing tradition or you are creating an ofrenda for the first time, this guide will walk you through the essential elements included in our Amor Eterno Ofrenda Kits to help you build one that reflects both tradition and your family’s story.
Elements of an Ofrenda
Cempacuchil (Marigold): Represents the sun and life, guiding the souls of the departed through its scent and color.
Calaveras (Skulls): A universal symbol of death and the fragility of life. On the Day of the Dead, they are used to remind us that death is a natural part of the cycle of life.
La Luz (The Light): The flame emitted by the candles on an altar symbolizes guidance so that the dead may find their way back to their loved ones.
El Vaso (The Cup): The cups of water represent purity and are offered to the souls so they can quench their thirst after their long journey from the afterlife.
El Plato (The Plate): Used to present food offerings to the deceased. They can also be used to hold purification elements, such as salt, which is believed to help spirits return to the world of the dead.
Alebrijes: Considered spiritual guides that help the souls of the departed find their way back to the world of the living.
Pictures & Personalization
Now that you have the basic elements and decoration, it's time to truly dedicate the space to your loved ones. Pick out your favorite photos of family and friends who have passed. If you don't already have them printed and framed, this is also a fun way to pick out picture frames that fit their personalities or maybe even use frames that were once theirs.
To personalize the ofrenda even more, arrange some of their favorite items or things that represent what they loved to do. This could be their favorite book or the apron they always wore in the kitchen. If they loved a certain sport or game, put out a deck of cards or dominoes.
If you purchased our Ana Maria or Celia Ofrenda Kits, you have a plate and a cup - it's time to fill them. On the plate, you can put out their favorite food, snack or candy. If you're fortunate enough to have tableware that belonged to them, consider putting those out too. As you read above, the cup filled with water represents purity and is there for the souls to quench their thirst after their long journey from the afterlife. In addition to water, you can also add any other beverages they enjoyed - a can of soda or a bottle of their favorite spirit.
Days of Celebration
Although it’s called Día de Muertos, the celebration extends beyond November 1 and 2. These are the main days of remembrance, but in many Mexican traditions, it is believed that different souls begin making their way home in the days leading up to them. The exact dates and who is remembered on each day can vary by region and family tradition.
October 27: In some traditions, pets and other beloved animals who have passed are remembered and welcomed home. Families may place their photos, favorite treats, toys, or other meaningful items on an altar.
October 28: Some traditions welcome the souls of those who died tragically, violently, or in accidents.
October 29: In some traditions, this day is dedicated to souls who have been forgotten or have no one to remember them.
October 30 & 31: Depending on the region and family tradition, these days may be dedicated to other departed souls, including those who may not have anyone to remember them.
November 1: Known as Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day), this day is traditionally associated with children who have passed, often called angelitos (“little angels”).
November 2: Día de los Fieles Difuntos (All Souls’ Day) is traditionally associated with deceased adults and is a central day of remembrance for many families.
While these dates offer a beautiful way to understand the traditions surrounding Día de Muertos, there is no single calendar. Customs differ across regions, communities, and generations—and that diversity is part of what makes the celebration so meaningful.