Families prepare for the Day of the Dead celebration at Thanksgiving Point

LEHI — It is a holiday full of traditions and family bonds known as the Day of the Dead. The holiday is celebrated November 1st and 2nd, but dozens of “ofrendas” are presented at Thanksgiving Point on Saturday and Sunday.

“It's important for us to know our roots,” said Norma Carver, who is preparing an ofrenda for Day of the Dead celebrations.

Day of the Dead, celebrated November 1 and 2 in Mexico and parts of Central America, is a holiday when the spirits of deceased loved ones and ancestors return from the spirit world to mingle with the living.

Carver carefully scatters marigold petals on the ornate altar known as the ofrenda. Marigold is believed to connect the worlds of the living and the dead.

“That means we clear the way for all the dead,” Carver said. “The veil is so thin that you can see and have spiritual experiences with your loved ones.”

An “ofrenda” prepared to celebrate the Day of the Dead. (KSL TV)

The multiple levels of the altar represent the different stages of life or the separation between heaven and earth. Some believe that the “alebrijes,” or spirit animals, are meant to guide each soul. The traditional “Pan de Muertos,” also called “Bread of the Dead,” is only baked at this time of year to welcome the departed.

One of the most important elements of an ofrenda are images of loved ones. Offerings are personalized with a family's ancestral favorite foods and dishes.

“Pan de Muertos,” also known as “Bread of the Dead,” at one of the ofrendas. (KSL TV)

Carver said at times the presence of deceased relatives was undeniable.

“My dad's picture frame cracked a little when I was putting it up. It’s just a sign, I can tell he’s already with me,” Carver said.

Carver said the special holiday strengthens family bonds across generations.

“Death is not the end. It’s just the beginning,” she said. “We celebrate death. We honor the people who are not here because we know they are better off.”

Red Ban at Thanksgiving Point is transformed with Carver-like offerings. Visitors can view the offerings on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m

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