The Los Angeles Zoo and the Plaza de la Raza Cultural Center for the Arts & Education are holding their third “Beloved Pets Ofrenda“, in observance of Día de los Muertos. “Ofrenda” translates to “offering” in English, and serves as an altar to honor deceased loved ones.
In this case, the Ofrenda is dedicated to our furry family members. It’s currently running until Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) when past human loved ones are celebrated in Mexican and other Latin and Hispanic communities.
Anyone visiting the L.A. Zoo can bring a photo, drawing, or other mementos to celebrate their past pets, similar to part of the Día de los Muertos tradition. The zoo also offers art supplies to help guests create their tribute. It doesn’t matter if your family member has two or four legs – losing them is always a painful process. Traditional celebrations like this let people get together to remember past loved ones with more joy than sadness.