The Briscoe is excited to invite guests and members of the museum to participate in our community Ofrenda (Altar) in celebration of Dia de los Muertos.

The Day of the Dead Holiday is thought to have grown from Indigenous origins blending with European traditions in Mexico and today is a national symbol of Mexican and Mexican-American heritage.

The Briscoe’s Ofrenda commemorates loved ones of the museum’s staff, community and the West. Museum guests and members are invited to add photos of lost loved ones and your personal offering. 

🗓️ Tuesday, October 3rd through November 2nd. 

🖼️Free Day of the Dead themed crafts will be available for those who want to participate but don’t bring a personal item.   

💐The Hendler Family Museum Store will have Day of the Dead altar items available for purchase.

Some Ofrenda etiquette to consider due to our unique museum setting:

🚫 NO real food or liquids (cookies, beer, etc)

🚫 NO real flowers or plants (including sealed tobacco products like cigars and cigarettes)

🚫 NO flames (candles or incense)

All Ofrenda offerings are intended & you agree they stay with the museum for future use.

In contrast to the frights associated with Christian/Pagan observations of All Hallows’ Eve & All Saints’ Day, Day of the Dead is associated with welcoming back the souls of loved ones who have passed away.  It is tradition to “offer” the returning soul the things they had enjoyed in life.  These offerings include everything from their favorite sports team, dessert and especially earthly vices like alcohol and cigarettes.  

Today’s Ofrendas may go beyond the family extending to popular figures throughout history.  Locally you can find ofrendas dedicated to political and cultural icons who have passed such as San Antonio Mayor Lila Cockrell or impersonator Hispanic Elvis or musical icons like Selena and Stevie Ray Vaughn.