Families in Wausau gathered on Saturday for a Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, celebration organized by the local nonprofit HOLA.
Visitors could place photos of loved ones who have died on the ofrenda, or altar, and add their names to a poster. Families often leave favorite foods and drinks beside the photos as a way to honor them.
HOLA president Mariana Savela said a room was set aside where adults and children could learn what the tradition means, and community partners hosted tables with related activities. The event also offered face painting and a photo booth.
Savela said she placed photos of her brother and her grandparents on the altar, and that she keeps a small altar at home in Wisconsin and in Mexico. She said her family believes marigold flowers, called cempasúchil, help guide the spirits of loved ones to visit through their scent and color.
Savela said the day is about more than face painting or large celebrations, and described it as a special time together to remember loved ones. The event was open to the public for community members who wanted to learn more about the tradition.
