Practical guide to set up your first altar for the dead

The Day of the Dead in Mexico is a very special tradition, where the living and the dead reunite, and to do this, the former prepare a pleasant and colorful welcome for their loved ones who are no longer on Earth, filled with food, flowers, and everything they enjoyed. According to belief, the dead make a journey to return to their family, as in old times, to enjoy their favorite food and drinks.To preserve this beautiful ritual, it is necessary to create an offering or altar with elements that will make their stay more comfortable. Do you have them already? Do you know which are the essentials in a traditional Day of the Dead altar? Here we tell you which elements must not be missing, as well as their significance.PhotographTo help the souls pass through the gates of purgatory and reunite with you, you should place a photograph or their full name, so they can find their place in the earthly plane and not wander to find you.WaterThis vital liquid, which reflects the purity of the world, will help quench the soul's thirst that comes to visit you after the long journey it makes to reach its destination; it will also strengthen them on their return to the spiritual plane.CandlesThe light represents the faith and hope that will guide them on this journey. In some indigenous communities, each candle represents the deceased. Some place candles on the altar in the shape of a cross, which represents the four cardinal points that will orient the spirits' path.CopalThis element cleanses and purifies the environment, and it will also drive away the evil spirits found in purgatory.MarigoldThe fragrance and color of this flower will guide the souls to your home; the ritual dictates that a path should be made with its petals to facilitate their arrival.FoodThe spirits feed on aromas, so you should prepare their favorite dishes and consume them alongside them, just as they did while alive; this will make their journey more enjoyable.Bread. This food on your altar represents fraternity, and it will also serve as dessert after the meal.Salt. It is a purifying element and will help them not to become corrupted on their journey.Sugar skull. It represents death, which is why it must always be present in your offering.Paper cuttings This decoration cannot be missing from your altar, as it will add great color to your offering; furthermore, it is a characteristic element of this Mexican celebration, where different ideas of the season can be expressed.Now that you know the main elements for your altar for the dead, the rest will depend on you and your creativity, so pour your heart into it and enjoy one of the most beautiful traditions of our country.