By Jessica Nguyen, Staff Writer
The Spanish Club took a step back and admired what laid in front of them. The colorful papel picados fluttered in the wind. Eyes of calacas gleamed back. Yellow and orange marigolds spelt out FVHS. After six hours of hard work, their ofrenda was done.
On Saturday, FVHS Spanish celebrated Noche de Altares in honor of Day of the Dead or Día de los Muertos.
El Día de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday that honors the dead. Contrary to what one may think, it is neither a scary or sad day, but rather an opportunity to remember the lives of loved ones and friends.
While Day of the Dead is usually celebrated on Nov. 1 and 2, Noche de Altares took place on Nov. 3 on 4th and Birch Street, Santa Ana from 1-10 p.m. Spanish songs, colorful altars and aromatic foods filled the street. A tradition that started in the 16th century, the celebration has naturally evolved over time but still serves to honor the dead.
“We want to show others the traditions of Mexico, so they won’t be lost in the new generations of the world,” said Jackieline Velazquez, a three year member of Spanish club. “We also want to share the importance of the Day of the Dead and how it looks like in different communities. Celebrating Day of the Dead helps students understand more of Mexico’s cultural traditions and the importance of family that we have lost. It also helps Spanish Club understand more about the culture.”
In the middle of the bustling crowds, FVHS’ very own ofrenda was stationed. In the past, Spanish Club has participated in creating ofrendas, but this year was different.
“Something special about this year’s ofrenda was that it was decorated by people who were not Hispanic, but were learning about this tradition in their Spanish classes, so the students had a hands-on experience for this altar for the first time,” said Velazquez. “Additionally, this year’s ofrenda was the biggest ofrenda that was made so far. It took a lot of hard work to put this masterpiece together. There were many different parts that everyone was able to partake in and help with. It was a really beautiful experience because people of all cultures were participating in this event to help us celebrate our deceased loved ones.”
The ofrenda incorporated numerous decorations like papel picados, candles, beverages and flowers that represented the four elements: wind, fire, water and earth. Other components included a traditional altar and belongings or any items that honored the loved one. In particular, Spanish Club dedicated their ofrenda to Roberto Clemente, a Puerto Rican professional baseball right fielder who played 18 seasons in Major League Baseball for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
“We dedicated the ofrenda to Roberto because he amazed many people with his talent and kindness, and a year after he passed away, was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame,” said Roselyn Renderos, a member of Spanish Club.
This event has brought together the living and the dead, but also the members of the Spanish Club and community. Noche de Altares is a great experience for students who want to earn points for cultural projects or anyone willingly to attend and engage in a wonderful culture.
“Celebrating this event has taught me that hard work and determination really pays off. Even though we were all pretty much tired at the end of the day, the people that were walking by gave us compliments and asked us questions about our ofrenda,” says Renderos. “This was honestly a day I’ll never forget.”
Be sure to catch Spanish Club next year at Noche de Altares!
