The Aurora Public Library (APL) will present its fifth annual Ofrendas competition, and everyone is invited to participate! Community organizations, families, and community members can sign up to decorate an altar in the Santori Library, 101 S River Street, Aurora, Atrium, to honor deceased relatives and welcome the spirits to All Saints Day Friday, Nov. 1 and All Souls Day Saturday, Nov. 2. Deadline to participate is October 1 and spots are going fast!
Each ofrenda will include a representative of the four elements of life, including water, air, earth, and fire. Cempasúchil, or marigold flower, is the traditional flower of Muertos, and is believed to guide the dead to their offerings with its unique and delightful aroma. This earth element joins representations of food, particularly fruits, that the relative enjoyed in life. Likewise, it is common to include a commemoration to the relative’s favored beverage as an earth-offering.
Air elements include papel picado, or paper banners, to decorate each altar and add vibrant colors to this joyful celebration. A glass of water is typically included, and is believed to quench the thirst of loved ones traveling from the dead to visit. Finally, candles are displayed to represent the fire elements and memories that are forever burning in our hearts.
Those interested in joining the festivities by decorating an ofrenda, please contact Krista Danis at kdanis@aurorapubliclibrary.org for an application as soon as possible. Inventory lists of all included items should be submitted to the Library by October 16 for review prior to display in the Atrium.
The first, second, and third place ofrendas will be decided by a panel of select community members and will be announced November 1 at Santori Public Library of Aurora during First Fridays festivities. Criteria for judging include the use of colors, originality, creativity, and cultural relevance, or how closely the Ofrenda follows traditional guidelines. The ceremony will start at 5 p.m. and the all ages celebration continues throughout the evening with refreshments, Lotería, crafts, and entertainment. This is a family-friendly celebration of Día De Los Muertos!
Krista Danis, events and program coordinator, said, “This community event is such an important piece of the collective Día De Los Muertos experience and festival in Aurora. We at the Aurora Public Library are thrilled and honored to be host to these beautifully-crafted altars. Keeping our space for this celebration speaks directly to the role we play in bringing people together to discover, create, connect, and succeed!”
Those unable to attend the November 1 First Fridays festivities can view the ofrendas, which will be on display Monday, Oct. 28 through Saturday, Nov. 2. There will be plenty of opportunities to have the experience of this tradition!
Do you have significant experience decorating and dedicating ofrendas? If you do, and you would like to participate this year as a judge, let us know! You can contact kdanis@aurorapubliclibrary.org for more information.
Miriam Meza-Gotto is communications manager for Aurora Public Library.