What is Día de los Muertos? A Mexican tradition honouring our dearly departed. Like many Mexican traditions, it originated centuries ago and reflects a fusion of ancient beliefs that view death as a continuation of life.

It is not about fear or ghosts (this is not Halloween). It’s about love, memory, and family.

In 2008, UNESCO recognised it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

An ofrenda (“offering/shrine”) is an altar built to welcome our absent friends and family back for a visit. Marigolds (cempasúchil) guide them home with colour and scent. Candles light the way, photographs hold their memory, and their favourite food and drink welcome them at the table.

Building an ofrenda is an act of hospitality — a way of saying: you live in our love for you.

Creating a collective/shared ofrenda is an emerging way of sharing this tradition. You are invited to bringing something that reminds you of a departed loved one and offer it to the shrine. This could be a photograph of your grandmother (or a beloved pet or an artist you admire) along with the type of chocolate/cigarette/sherry/fruit/treat that they used to enjoy. Tonight, they’ll be there, enjoying them with you.

You will be able to collect your photos and items on Sun 8 Nov.

This is a free community event for all ages.
(This is NOT a party, but it’s definitely a celebration.)