An ofrenda (an “offering” in Spanish) is created to honor a deceased loved one (human or animal) and to welcome their spirit back for a visit. A significant part of El Día de los Muertos celebrations, family members in Mexico work together to create an ofrenda in the home. Items typically displayed on an ofrenda include photos, candles, incense, marigold flowers, pan de muerto, toiletries, sugar skulls, fresh fruit, personal items and mementos of the deceased and favorite foods and drinks of the deceased – all with the intention of encouraging spirits to return home for a visit. 

In addition to home ofrendas, it is also common in Mexico to create elaborate ofrendas in public spaces, such as town plazas, city halls, museums, schools and shop windows. Like home ofrendas, public ofrendas can honor personal friends or family members. Additionally, public ofrendas often pay homage to prominent community members, important people in history or people associated with significant cultural or political events or movements.

In the tradition of the public ofrenda, all are invited to contribute to Provincetown’s Day of the Dead Ofrenda Exhibition, which will be on display at The Provincetown Theater for the evening of November 2 beginning at 6pm.

During the Exhibition there will be a cash bar and delicious tacos for sale from Provincetown’s own Taqueria.

The Ofrenda Exhibition is free and open to all.

If you would like to create an ofrenda for the exhibition, please email provincetowndayofthedead@gmail.com. Ofrenda set-up will take place Wednesday, November 1, 6-8pm and/or Thursday, November 2, 10am-12pm.