The Puente Club held their Dia De Los Muertos Community Celebration on Thursday.

 Puente student speakers gave presentations explaining the significance of the holiday. The event was held in Winn-150, with approximately 50 to 60 people in the room.

Dia de Los Muertos, a Mexican holiday known as the “Day of the Dead,” is celebrated throughout Mexico and signifies the remembrance of family, friends or loved ones who died. The first day of this cultural holiday began Thursday and ended Saturday.

Puente Club Counselor Christopher Torres said the goal of the community celebration was to not only show what Dia de Los Muertos is but to unite people during the celebration.

“It really brings people together,” said Karl Perez, a 22-year-old early childhood education major. “I wanted to truly explore and understand the Latino community.” 

Torres said creating ofrendas helps us connect with our loved ones. 

An “ofrenda” is an altar and is set up with pictures of those who have passed away. Ofrenda, in Spanish, means “offering,” which is why food is placed on the ofrenda along with other objects that hold great value.

“It’s a way for the living to honor and remember those who are not here anymore,” said Torres. 

Food, personal belongings, candles, flowers, sugar skulls and more were placed on the ofrenda to welcome loved ones who have passed. 

“Usually when you think of death, it’s associated with black and darkness,” said Olivia Contreras, a member of the Puente Club. “With our culture, it’s very bright and beautiful. We’re not celebrating that their life ended but we are celebrating the life that they had and remembering them.” 

The Puente Club broke up into six groups, each presenting a mini-lesson on what the holiday is, what exactly is celebrated, what the significance of the ofrendas are and so much more. 

“We created a community altar which is for anyone who wants to honor or remember their loved ones,” said Torres. “This isn’t just for Mexicans. We want everyone to feel welcome.”

Torres said this is a way to give back to your ancestors and that’s why this holiday is so important to the Mexican culture. 

“This is a day that brings good memories,” said Torres. “A day that we can reconnect with our loved ones.