How to Set Up an Ancestor Altar
Generally, altars are used to honor, give praise and show gratitude to entities, gods, goddesses, spirits or the universe. Ancestor altars are designed to honor loved ones who have passed from this plane to the next. It's a way to show gratitude for the things they did for us while alive and also to help them on their present journey. In return, we hope they will keep a watchful eye on us for protection and help in our day-to-day lives.
It is up to you whether your ancestor altar is permanent or only set up for special occasions: in remembrance of a birthday, a death day, or holidays - particularly Samhain or Halloween. An All Hallows Eve ancestor altar takes advantage of the thinning of the veil between worlds, when communication with the dead is easiest.
The list below is by no means all-inclusive. Your creativity and intuition will guide you in what to choose to put on your altar. An explanation of the items in the list follows. Here are few things you can include to get you started:
Photos of the deceased
Mementos or trinkets that remind you of the deceased
Fresh, drinkable water
A dish for food or other offering materials
One or several candles
Offerings of the things they liked when they were alive
Fresh flowers and/or any type of seasonal decoration
Photos & Mementos
The photos and mementos help make a connection with the deceased so they realize the offerings are for them. If a photo isn't available, simply writing their names on paper to leave on the altar and stating out loud these offerings are for them will do the job.
Water, Food, & Other Consumables
Although they have no physical body to nourish, spirits still need energy to thrive. Fresh water, food and even alcohol are welcomed and enjoyed by ancestors. Offering them things they enjoyed while alive is especially thoughtful; for instance, a glass of your aunt's favorite red wine, the brand of cigarettes your dad smoked or the mints your gran always had with her. Though these consumable offerings may not disappear to signal they were received, rest assured the energy your ancestors received from these gifts was appreciated! Consumable offerings should be left out for at least a few hours. It's best to leave them on the altar for 24 hours if possible. Afterward, you may simply throw away the food, drinks and other items. You should not consume these yourself! We wouldn't eat the food left on a guest's plate so, we shouldn't eat or consume offerings given to ancestors.
Candles & Decorations
Using candles on an altar is standard practice so, no need to explain this one. However, suffice it to say, if you're not able to offer anything else, a simple candle and some fresh water is absolutely fine. The decorations are an extra effort and can be used at your discretion. At the very least, your altar should be kept clean and dust-free with fresh water every day while it's set up.
Giving your time and energy to set up an ancestor altar will show honor to the deceased and provide the energy they need. In return, you can be comforted to know they are still with you, supporting you every day.