Altars are not just Chinese things. On the Day(s) of the Dead, “ofrendas” are set up to remember and honor the memory of the ancestors.
The ofrenda is usually set on a table covered with a white tablecloth, over which papel picado is placed.
Apart from images of the deceased, “Curcifix,” images of Jesus on the cross, would also be put on the table. Since most Mexicans are Catholics, they do not worship the dead like how the Chinese do. Instead, they are setting up the ofrendas solely to honor the deceased.
For each decease relative, a candle is set. Not only are the candles thought to guide the dead on their way back with their light, they also symbolize people’s faith in Jesus Christ’s reborn.
There would also be flowers, specially Cempasuchitl, adorning the ofrendas. They represent the fugacity of life.
Salt and water are also seen. They are set to quench the thirst of the souls who are tired form their long trip from the World of the Dead. Water also purifies and cleanses.
Other than the things mentioned, the favorite things of the dead’s would also be put around the ofrenda.
In case you miss the punchline, listen carefully to what the lady says in the end