SAN JUAN, Texas (Nexstar) -- The front steps of the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle in San Juan, Texas, will serve as a community 'ofrenda', or altar, for the community to honor their loved ones during the Dia de los Muertos celebration. "I want to re-emphasis, we are not celebrating death, we are honoring the dead," Father Jorge Gomez, Rector at the basilica, said. Dia de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, has been celebrated for centuries, dating back long before the conquistadores came to Mexico. After the Spaniards colonized in the 16th century, they combined their Christian celebrations with the indigenous cultures already in place and it grew into the vibrant and colorful festivity known today. The epicenter of that colorful tradition is the ofrenda that honors those who have died. Father Gomez says the ofrenda is a place for families to memorialize their loved in different ways, and the basilica will provide that space for people across south Texas. "You bring if you can bring pictures and a blanket, so you can put your pictures and any way you want to decorate it with flowers," Father Gomez said. "Sometimes they bring 'pan dulce' and the food they use to like or their favorite musical instrument, you name it." While remembering those who have died can be a somber and difficult moment, Father Gomez says honoring the dead can also bring peace in time of need. "As long as we remember them, we pray for them," Father Gomez said. "Then, when we pray for the dead, we are at the same time asking those who are in heaven to pray for us. And we help each other with our prayers." The ofrenda at the basilica is just one part of a bigger celebration during Dia de los Muertos. The Downtown San Juan Cultural Arts District has spearheaded an annual festival do keep the rich tradition and cultural staple. With many activities, including la Catrina face paintings, costumes, and music, festival organizers want the community to embrace the colorful culture of honoring the dead, with a unique twist of old and new traditions. "We're proud to announce that the route for the 5K will consist of running through the stations of the Basilica as well, so we will include a route that will go through there," City of San Juan Parks and Recreation Director Ruben Guajardo said. While this is only the second year this festival will be held in San Juan, the mission is to carry on the traditions and celebrate life for years to come. "Culture is the way we express who we are, so having this rooted in our hearts and in our lives, we can teach the next generation the importance keeping and praying for those who have died and praying for those who are still alive," Father Gomez said.