In a heartfelt blend of cultural tradition and community compassion, the Los Angeles Zoo announced that its pet ofrenda will be open to the public beginning Saturday, October 12, and will remain available through November 2. The ofrenda—Spanish for “offering”—serves as an altar where visitors can honor pets that have passed away, reflecting the universal experience of loss and the celebration of life.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage and Día de los Muertos
The ofrenda is part of the zoo’s observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month and the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos, which falls on November 1 and 2. Partnering with the Plaza de la Raza Cultural Center for the Arts & Education, the zoo has created a dedicated space at the Front Entrance Plaza near Sea Life Cliffs. The altar will be displayed on weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with additional weekday access for guests who bring printed photos during regular zoo hours.
How Visitors Can Participate
Pet owners are encouraged to bring printed photographs, drawings, or personal mementos to place on the ofrenda. Zoo staff will be on hand during weekend hours to assist guests with printing photos, ensuring that everyone can take part regardless of whether they come prepared. The ofrenda will grow each year, a trend noted by Coral Barreiro, manager of community programs at the zoo, who said, “For the last six years, our guests and members have engaged with the ofrenda, and it grows larger each year, which is a testament to the universality of the grief we all experience when we lose a pet.”
Why This Matters to Families
For many families, pets are cherished members of the household, and their loss can be deeply felt. By providing a public space to remember these companions, the zoo offers a supportive environment that aligns with traditional family values and the Christian principle of honoring the bonds of love. The event also reinforces the zoo’s role as a community hub, fostering connections among residents of all backgrounds.
Practical Details
- Location: Front Entrance Plaza, Los Angeles Zoo, near Sea Life Cliffs
- Dates: October 12 – November 2 (weekends 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; weekdays during regular zoo hours for photo printing)
- What to Bring: Printed photos, drawings, or small mementos of your departed pet
- Assistance: Zoo staff will help with photo printing on weekends
- Partner: Plaza de la Raza Cultural Center for the Arts & Education
The Los Angeles Zoo invites all residents to participate in this compassionate tribute, offering a chance to celebrate the lives of beloved animals while honoring the rich cultural traditions of the city’s Hispanic community.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
