(BPT) - Every November, millions of families across Mexico and the United States prepare for one of the most meaningful celebrations in Latino culture - Día de los Muertos. Also known as the Day of the Dead, the celebration is far more than a holiday; it's a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed.
At the heart of this ancient tradition lies the ofrenda, a carefully constructed altar that serves as both tribute and invitation. These beautiful displays aren't mere decorations, but sacred spaces designed to welcome the spirits of loved ones back for a joyful reunion.
When creating your own ofrenda at home, start by including items that represent the four essential elements of life: water, fire, earth and wind. These components come together to guide and comfort the spirits on their journey. Whether you create an elaborate ofrenda or keep it small, these elements are essential in welcoming and cherishing passed loved ones.
Water: Quenching the spirit's thirst
Water is offered to quench the thirst of souls returning after a long journey, and many families honor this tradition by placing their loved one's favorite beverages on the ofrenda. For Mexican and Mexican American families, this often includes beers like Modelo - a gesture that reflects personal memories and cherished traditions.
Born in Mexico a century ago, Modelo Especial has been part of family gatherings across generations, making it a natural choice for ofrendas where families seek to honor their ancestors who emulated the Mark of a Fighter and recreate the moments they once shared. Whether it's a cold bottle placed alongside fresh water and traditional aguas frescas, or raised in a toast to honor the departed, Modelo serves as both an offering and bridge - connecting families to their heritage while inviting loved ones to share one more drink across the veil between worlds.
"We're honored that families include Modelo in their ofrendas, making us a part of a heartfelt and meaningful tradition," said Logan Jensen, vice president of Brand Marketing, Modelo. "We look forward to being a part of the celebration as generations come together to honor loved ones for years to come."
Fire: Lighting the way for remembrance
Fire is represented by candles, whose flames light the way for visiting spirits. Each candle is often dedicated to a specific loved one, illuminating their path and signaling that they are remembered and cherished. The gentle glow infuses the ofrenda with warmth and hope, embodying the enduring light of family and memory.
Earth: Nourishing connections
Earth is celebrated through marigold flowers, or cempasúchil, and traditional Mexican foods such as pan de muerto. The vibrant orange petals of cempasúchil are believed to attract spirits with their color and scent, while the sweet bread is both a treat for the souls and a symbol of the cycle of life. Together, these earthly offerings ground the celebration in the flavors, scents and beauty of Mexican heritage.
Wind: The breath of life
Wind finds form in papel picado, the intricately cut tissue paper banners that sway above the ofrenda. Their delicate movement in the breeze is said to represent the presence of spirits and the ephemeral nature of life. These colorful decorations add a festive spirit, turning remembrance into a celebration of life's fleeting beauty.
With these four elements combined, an ofrenda becomes a vibrant reminder of heritage, legacy and tradition. So, raise a glass of Modelo and keep the memories alive. For more info on Modelo, visit ModeloUSA.com.
Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.