Day of the Dead altars, also known as ofrendas (offerings), are constructed and adorned to remember, honor and please the dead, are a central symbol of Día de los Muertos.

In the spirit of traditional Día de los Muertos festivities, a community altar will serve as the festival's centerpiece, inviting attendees to leave mementos in honor of their loved ones who have passed. You’re welcome to contribute by bringing photographs, notes, non-perishable items, flowers, and other traditional Día de los Muertos decorations. Items can be left for future use or collected at 5:00 PM on Sunday after the procession if you wish to keep them.

Elements of the altar and their significance 

Arches: Passageways between life and death

Candles: Light, Faith and Hope

Flowers: Remind us that life does not endure

Traditionally: Cempasuchil - Marigolds - Mano de Leon - Cockscomb - Lions Paw

Incense: Cleans the space of negativity

Traditionally: Copal

Ofrendas: General items for the offerings put on the altar

Water: Life and purity, satisfies the thirst of the spirit

Thank you for your interest in participating in the 2025 Día de los Muertos Altar Contest! This invitation is open to the general public until Fri, Sep 12 at 5:00 PM (or until spaces are filled).

• English Altar Contest Rules and Guidelines
• Spanish Altar Contest Rules and Guidelines

Due to limited space, a maximum of 20 altar applications will be accepted.

Apply here

Mercado Vendor Application 2025 - English

Mercado Vendor Application 2025 - Spanish

Food Vendor Application