Community gathers to celebrate Dia de los Muertos

MISSION, Texas (ValleyCentral) — During this time, many people are preparing their altars, also known as ofrendas, ready for a Mexican holiday that celebrates and honors the lives of deceased loved ones. Multiple days are celebrated, each being for a special reason.

When it comes to Dia de los Muertos, every detail tells a story.

The Mission Historical Museum provides free space each year for eight to 14 ofrendas where the public can visit and loved ones can pay their respects. Registration opens in August and usually fills up in one day.

Cynthia Lopez, director of the Mission Historical Museum, explains that while Dia de los Muertos is officially celebrated on Nov 1 and 2, the festivities can begin as early as Oct 27. From that date through Nov 2, each day is devoted to different souls, such as pets, children, and those without family.

Lopez says this Mexican tradition is a tribute to the cycle of life.

“It always has personalized objects that they liked or that belonged to them. Traditional objects that are found on an ofrenda are objects that represent the different elements, which are wind, air, water, and earth. We see incense as part of the ofrendas, we see marigolds," Lopez said.

Lopez says ofrendas can even include food and water, which some believe nourish a spirit as it goes through a journey to visit loved ones. She adds that building an ofrenda can be very therapeutic for those who are grieving, as it allows them to share the story of their loved one and, in doing so, feel closer to them.

For those interested in participating, a community ofrenda is expected to be held at the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan, located at 400 Virgen de San Juan Blvd., on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. outside by the Mother Mosaic and candle rooms.

People from across the Valley can place pictures of their loved ones and remember them together.