The Day of the Dead Altar (in Spanish called Ofrenda) is a prehispanic tradition that has integrated with the Catholic Religion
in Mexico to become the celebration it is today.The Mexican Ofrenda is made with great preparation and symbolism.
+The altar consists of three levels or tiers representing the
three stages in life
+The three tier altar is covered with "Papel Picado" of three
important colors PURPLE ( for pain)WHITE ( hope) and PINK
(for celebration)RED(the blood of Jesus or Indigenous blood)
+Four candles on the top tier to represent the four cardinal
points.The light of these candles illuminate the path for the
dead's journey home.
+ The second level you put three sugar skulls to represent
the Holy Trinity.
+ The bottom tier a Large Calavera is placed to represent God
or "the giver of life".
Photgraphs of your beloved dead are placed on the altar,
special foods like tamales and mole turkey and drinks like
tequila, beer or atole(made from corn important Aztec food)
as well as harvested fruits and candies.A MUST for an altar
is WATER: to quench the thirst of the dead after journey
SALT:for seasoning and tequila
BREAD: Pan de Muertos food needed for survival

A bowel of water,soap,towel and comb for spirits to clean up.

COPAL inscense is burned as in ancient Aztec Times. It is the
sap from a Mexican tree and it 's scent attracts the spirits and
draws them home.

Marigolds(Cempasuchil) adorn the altar their bright orange
and gold colors help the dead see the altar(Aztecs called it
the" flower of 400 lives")Their fragrance helps to direct.

Hope this gives you some insight intothe Mexican Day of the Dead Altar. But in US it it all about artistic expression, love, spirituality and fun.So Good Luck with your Ofrenda in November! ADIOS