Camarillo, CA – This fall, our community is coming together to celebrate Día de los Muertos, a meaningful tradition that honors the memories of those who have left us. We invite all local residents to participate in creating a beautiful community ofrenda at our library, where we can collectively remember and celebrate the lives of our loved ones who have passed away. This shared memorial space will become a colorful testament to our community’s diverse histories and the legacies of those who shaped our lives.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican cultural celebration that has spread throughout many communities as a time to remember deceased family members and friends with love rather than sorrow. The ofrenda (Spanish for “offering”) is central to this tradition—a special altar adorned with photos, favorite foods, and mementos of the departed, along with traditional elements like marigold flowers, candles, and sugar skulls. By creating a community ofrenda, we’re embracing this significant tradition that helps us maintain connections with our ancestors and share their stories across generations.
The essence of Día de los Muertos lies in the belief that on this special day, the veil between worlds thins, allowing our departed loved ones to return and celebrate with us. Our community ofrenda provides a focal point for this reunion—a sacred space where memories are honored and stories are shared. From October 13 through November 3, we invite you to contribute to this meaningful display by bringing copies of photographs of your departed loved ones to the 2nd Floor Reference Desk at the library.
Participation is simple and open to everyone, regardless of cultural background. This inclusive celebration invites us all to remember those who came before us in a spirit of love and respect. Your contributions will transform our community ofrenda into a showcase of remembered lives, creating a powerful visual representation of our shared human experience with loss, remembrance, and the enduring connections that transcend death.
To participate in our community ofrenda, simply bring copies of photographs of your departed loved ones to the 2nd Floor Reference Desk anytime between October 13 and November 3. Our staff will carefully incorporate your submissions into the display. We strongly recommend bringing photocopies or printed duplicates rather than original photographs or irreplaceable memorabilia, as we cannot guarantee the safe return of original items due to the public nature of the display.
Once completed, our community ofrenda will be prominently displayed in the library lobby through November 3, creating a beautiful focal point for reflection and remembrance. This public installation offers an opportunity for everyone in our community to experience the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos, whether you’ve contributed photographs or simply wish to view the display. We encourage you to visit multiple times throughout the exhibition period, as the ofrenda will evolve and grow more beautiful as more community members contribute their treasured memories.
