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Ofrenda Contest Participant Info

OFRENDA Contest Application

Hola!  Thank you for your interest in participating in the 4th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration Ofrenda (Altar) Competition. The Ofrendas are a new addition to the event and are a major part of this special cultural event.

The detailed information below will help you if you are interested in participating.

Prohibited: Selling merchandise at your Ofrenda site is strictly prohibited. Violators will be removed from the premises and restricted from participating next year.

Categories & Prizes

Best Ofrenda Created by a School/Students: $500 value (combination of cash & prizes)
Best Ofrenda Created by General Public (Non-School/Students): $500 value (combination of cash & prizes)
Best Overall Ofrenda: $1,000 value (combination of cash & prizes)

Only Ofrendas completed by 2:00pm Saturday, November 2, 2024 will be eligible to be judged by Judging Committee.

Judges

To be announced.

How to Apply

  1. Fill-out the Ofrenda Contest Application and Waiver.
  2. Once received and reviewed, we will contact you with a site map, your space number, and set-up instructions.

Prior to Applying, Read Below

  • Cancellations must be made 72-hours in advance. Those that are not in compliance of this directive will not be eligible to apply for future events.
  • We strongly encourage you to start building as much of your Ofrenda in advance of the event.
  • Please plan ahead and arrive organized.
  • Upon arrival, find your space on the map issued to you, unload your supplies, and immediately move and park your vehicle. Be mindful that surface street parking is metered.
  • You can start setting up onsite as early as 10:00am on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
  • All Ofrendas must be completed by 2:00pm Saturday, November 2, 2024 will be eligible to be judged by Judging Committee.
  • Ofrendas can be disassembled after 8:00pm and Ofrenda space must be clear by 11:00pm on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
  • Please be respectful of the Ofrenda space by bringing large trash bags to clean your space at the end of the event. Trash must be taken with you after you are done tearing down. Those with Ofrenda spaces not left clean of trash and debris will not be allowed to return the following year.
  • The Fire Department doesn’t allow the open flame burning candles. You can illuminate your Ofrenda with battery powered candles or solar lights.
  • The Ofrenda footprint is 10-foot by 10-foot and a max height of 12-feet.
  • Electricity will be provided, bring a 14-gauge 75-foot grounded extension cord with you to connect.
  • We allot 5 amps of 110v power per Ofrenda.
  • The winners will be announced at the main stage at 6:30pm by the Ofrenda judging committee.

Questions?

If you have any questions, please contact:

Nick Angulo
Event Manager
events@downtownchulavista.com

Ofrenda Elements

One of the key elements of Día de los Muertos revolves around ofrendas, or offerings, which are created through a visual display of Ofrenda-making and grave decorating. The offerings, a main focal point of the observance, echo the dedication and distinct love that is presented toward the dearly departed. Ofrendas can be created through a wide spectrum of dedications, depending on one’s creative desire. The Ofrenda includes the four main elements of nature – Earth, Wind, Water and Fire.

  • Earth is represented by the crop/food: The soul is fed by the various earthly aromas and flavors. Placing fruit or favorite family dishes on the Ofrenda provides nourishment for the beloved souls.
  • Wind is represented by a moving object: Papel Picado is commonly utilized to represent the echoes of the wind.
  • Water is also used for the means of purification: Water is placed in a container for the soul to quench its thirst after the long-awaited journey to the Ofrenda.
  • Fire is represented by a flickering candle or luminary: Each lit candle represents a loving soul, and an extra one is placed for the forgotten soul. Reminder open flame is not permitted.
  • Copal, Sage and/or Incense is burned to commemorate Pre-Columbian history.
  • The Cempasúchil (Marigold) flowers are known as “The flower of the dead” and traditionally blossoms in the valleys of Mexico during the months of October and November with a bright yellow color and is central to Ofrenda decorating. This flower aids the spirits to wander back.
  • Pictures are widely used in honor of the individual you are paying homage.
  • The Skull is a common symbol of the holiday which is celebrated and represented by decorative masks called calacas. In addition, sugar skulls are also tastefully created and inscribed with the names of both the honored and living recipients on the forehead as a means to remind us of our own mortality.