Día de los Muertos Celebration at City of Novato

Ofrendas provide a way to honor loved ones who have passed and celebrate the life they lived. We encourage guests to bring a 3x3 photo* of their loved ones to contribute to the community ofrenda. Guests will have the opportunity to decorate a hand crafted picture frame to place on the ofrenda. Silk marigolds and electric candles will be provided. *(Please use a copy of the original photo. The City of Novato is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged pictures. If you’d like your photo returned, please write your name and phone number on the back. Photos left behind can be picked up at the Margaret Todd Senior Center, 1560 Hill Road, by 4 PM on November 14.) ⁠

Learn more about what the items on an ofrenda represent below: ⁠

1. Marigolds – The color and scent attract departed souls and guide them to the ofrenda and family ⁠

2. Sugar Skulls– These skulls represent the departed souls in the circle of life ⁠

3. Photos/Mementos – Honor and remember a loved one who has passed ⁠

4. Incense – Cleanse, purify, and communicate with the spirit world ⁠

5. Butterflies – Hold the spirits of the departed ⁠

6. Cup of Water – For the spirits to quench their thirst after a long journey ⁠

7. Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead)- An offering from the earthly world ⁠

8. Papel Picado (Paper Banners) – Represent the wind and the union between life and death ⁠

9. Candle- Used to guide and light the way for the spirits ⁠

Alcohol, real candles, and incense are prohibited from being added to the community ofrenda. Please visit www.novato.org/events for more information.⁠