Día de los Muertos Festival ofrenda altar exhibit contest

The Mission Viejo Activities Committee is inviting residents to take part in its Día de los Muertos Festival and ofrenda altar exhibit October 28 at the Norman P. Murray Center. 

Día de los Muertos (or Day of the Dead) is a vibrant and meaningful Mexican tradition that allows people to come together to celebrate and remember their loved ones who passed away. One of the most poignant aspects of this celebration is the creation of the "ofrenda" altar. Residents are invited to take part in this beautiful tradition by crafting their own unique ofrenda that memorializes someone dear to them. 

Traditionally, the ofrenda serves as a focal point for the day. It's a way to honor and welcome back the spirits of the deceased for a brief reunion with the living. These ofrendas are elaborately decorated altars adorned with offerings that are both meaningful and symbolic. 

There is a nominal fee to reserve an ofrenda altar space. Reservations, which are due by 5 pm October 23, are available online.  

The Día de los Muertos Festival takes place at 24932 Veterans Way.  For more information, visit mvactivities.com or call 949-803-7066.