The Massillon Museum’s education department will display an Ofrenda in the Lower Level Lobby between October 14 and November 16. An Ofrenda, or an offering, is a decorated area celebrating Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.  

Día de los Muertos (November 1 and 2) originated in Mexico, but it is also associated with other Latin American nations and parts of the United States. It is closely related to the Christian holidays, All Saints’ Day (November 1) and All Souls’ Day (November 2). All honor those who have died. The items on the altar are believed to guide the spirits of the departed back to the world of the living for the celebration. 

MassMu staff will loan photographs, trinkets, memorabilia, gifts, and other mementoes that remind them of their ancestors. The Ofrenda is expected to recall memories of beloved board members and supporters as well as family members. Several items from the Museum’s permanent collection will be exhibited in a small case next to the Ofrenda.  

The Ofrenda and a dozen larger MassMu exhibitions may be seen with no admission fee during regular open hours: Tuesday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. 

Massillon Museum is a recipient of ArtsBuild funding from ArtsinStark. This grant is made possible by the support of the Stark County community through ArtsinStark's annual Campaign for the Arts. The Massillon Museum also appreciates operating support from the Ohio Arts Council, marketing support from Visit Canton, and the support of the citizens of Massillon. This exhibit is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.