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A mother explains the various elements that make up an ofrenda in the zocalo of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico during the celebration of Dia de los Muertos. During the Day of the Dead, families make alters dedicated to departed relatives, which include favorite foods, beverages and memorabilia to be enjoyed by the deceased as they return to the physical world on November 1 and 2. Alters for departed loved ones are constructed in public plazas, cemeteries and in homes to provide a place for the spirit of the dead to return and commune with the living.

In the El Dia de los Muertos: The Day of the Dead photo essay.