Honoring ancestors is a sacred tradition practiced worldwide, allowing us to connect deeply with our heritage, celebrate the lives of those who came before, and seek spiritual guidance. Here at That Art Party, we are all about deep connections and finding ways to transcend time through creative rituals. We value how our cultures bring our own unique rituals and symbolism, often centered around altars, in ways that celebrate ancestry and strengthen familial bonds. One of our signature play dates, Altars and Embroidery, builds upon our Mexican cultural tradition, Day of the Dead, where we build a collective altar to our loved ones who have passed, and we sew their memory into the intentional craft of embroidery. As a BIPOC affinity space we were inspired to explore some of these practices across cultures and offer tips to inspire your own meaningful ancestral altar as part of your creative ritual.

Día de Los Muertos (Mexico and Latin America)

Día de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a well-known holiday celebrated throughout Mexico and Latin America. Families construct vibrant, multi-level altars, called ofrendas, to honor loved ones who have passed. These altars are adorned with marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, personal items, and favorite foods of the deceased, symbolizing a warm welcome to the spirits. The celebration is rooted in joy and remembrance, allowing families to celebrate their loved ones in an atmosphere of love and memory.

• Resource: National Geographic provides an in-depth look at the meanings behind Día de Los Muertos altars, sharing insights into how this tradition both honors and keeps alive the memories of those who have passed. Learn more on National Geographic

Gede (Haiti)

In Haiti, the Gede festival takes place in early November, dedicated to honoring the spirits of the dead, known as the Gede. This tradition, deeply rooted in Haitian Vodou, includes setting up altars that are decorated with candles, flowers, food, and rum, often featuring the colors purple and black. The altars are typically adorned with skull imagery, representing the protection and reverence for the dead. Family members gather, often dressed in these colors, to honor the spirits, seeking wisdom, humor, and protection from ancestors.

• Resource: Smithsonian Magazine discusses the Gede festival in Haiti, including its roots, significance, and how the Haitian community connects with ancestral spirits through vibrant altars and rituals. Read more on Smithsonian Magazine

Pitru Paksha (India)

In Hindu culture, Pitru Paksha is a 16-day period for honoring and paying homage to ancestors. Families create symbolic altars featuring items such as foods, water, and small offerings known as shradh, which hold specific significance and are meant to nourish the spirits of the departed. Rituals may include prayers, special foods, and even small family gatherings to honor those who came before, bridging the connection between the past and present.

• Resource: Hinduism Today provides a thorough guide to the customs of Pitru Paksha, explaining the significance of shradh and the ancestral respect embedded in Hindu culture. Find out more on Hinduism Today

Nigerian and West African Traditions

In many Nigerian and West African cultures, ancestor veneration includes creating home altars or visiting sacred sites to honor those who have passed. Offerings often include water, food, kola nuts, and alcohol, as well as personal items or symbols that represent the individual or their life. Some families practice Egun (ancestor) worship, where family altars are set up with statues, masks, and other representations that symbolize the ancestors' presence. The act of gathering, storytelling, and offering thanks and prayers plays a significant role in keeping the family connected.

• Resource: NPR’s guide offers a closer look at connecting with ancestors and setting up altars, including insights into West African practices. Connect with your ancestors on NPR

Chuseok (South Korea)

In South Korea, Chuseok is a mid-autumn festival dedicated to ancestral worship and gratitude for a bountiful harvest. During this time, families set up altars with food, fruits, and rice wine to honor their ancestors. A crucial element of the ritual is charye, a ceremonial offering where each item on the altar holds specific significance and is placed with care.

• Resource: The Korea Times delves into Chuseok’s customs, the significance of charye, and how families use these ceremonies to honor their lineage and express appreciation. Explore more in The Korea Times

Creating Your Own Ancestral Altar

If you feel inspired to create your own ancestral altar, here are some simple steps to get started, adapted from Ancestors in Training, a source that provides a helpful guide to building meaningful altars:

1. Choose a Space: Find a place in your home where you can safely and respectfully set up an altar. It could be a small table, a windowsill, or a shelf.

2. Add Foundational Elements: Place a cloth or mat as a base for your altar items. Adding items like stones or crystals can help create a grounding effect.

3. Include Photos or Symbols: Adding photos of loved ones, ancestors, or symbolic representations connects you visually to those you are honoring.

4. Incorporate Offerings: Small, thoughtful offerings like candles, food, water, or flowers represent nourishment and are a way to welcome ancestral energy.

5. Add a Personal Touch: You can place items with personal meaning, such as handwritten notes, favorite objects, or tokens that reflect your family’s culture or memories. If you’re unsure of your lineage, you can call upon benevolent ancestors to guide and protect you.

6. Practice with Intention: Take a few moments each day or week to light a candle, say a prayer, or offer thanks. This simple act strengthens the connection and invites their presence and wisdom into your life.

Setting up an altar is a beautiful, grounding way to honor your ancestors, celebrate your heritage, and invite peace and comfort into your space. Every altar is unique, reflecting the lives and traditions of those it represents, while also creating space for you to cultivate your own personal practices. Whether you follow traditional methods or take inspiration to create something meaningful to you, the act of remembrance can provide deep solace and connection as we transition into a new season.

We hope you feel inspired to engage in a creative ritual. You are invited to join our creative self-care community and subscribe to our newsletter.