Five things to do this Dia de los Muertos

image credit: babbel.com

Christian Roque

Crimson Chronicle Reporter

Move over Halloween; Dia de los Muertos is not only a great holiday to celebrate with your friends and family, but it is also one that’s rich in culture and traditions, which doesn’t come as a surprise considering its roots dating back to pre-colonial times. If you haven’t ever had the pleasure of partaking in this wonderful celebration of life, and even if you have, now is the time to do so, and there are many ways you can go about doing so. Here are just five of them. 

1) Grand Park Dia de los Muertos Altars and Art Installation: The altars made to honor loved ones who have passed away serve as an integral part of Dia de los Muertos. If you ever need proof of that, just head on over to Grand Park, which just yesterday, with the aid of Self-Help Graphics and Arts, began its ninth annual Dia de Los Muertos event. There, you can see a myriad of different elegantly decorated altars made by nonprofits, professional artists, and locals. There is also a community altar for the public to make offerings to their deceased family members and friends. 

2) El Sereno Branch Library Sugar Skulls Workshop: The human skull is by far the most representative symbol of the entire Dia de los Muertos celebration. One of the more common implementations of skull imagery in the celebration are the decorative (and sometimes edible) skulls constructed from sugar. On October 30th, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., you can craft your very own sugar skulls at the El Sereno Branch Library’s courtyard. All supplies will be provided at the event, which is open to all ages. 

3) Olvera Street Dia de los Muertos Activities: Olvera Street is known for its deep connections to Mexican culture, so to go there during one of the most popular Mexican holidays is an absolute no-brainer. Not only are there many altars to be seen at this historic location, but it’s also hosting traditional indigenous Mexicans processions, a theatrical performance revolving around the history of the holiday, and even a 5K race for any runners out there. For more information regarding these events, including when they’ll be taking place, click here.

4) FiGat7th Dia de los Muertos Printmaking Workshop: For the more artsy person, consider going to the printmaking workshop being hosted by FiGat7th in downtown Los Angeles on October 29th from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.. There, you’ll be able to create your own Dia de los Muertos themed poster. 

5) Hollywood Forever Dia de los Muertos Festival: You knew this one was coming. After having canceled the widely-famous and self-proclaimed “biggest Dia de los Muertos event in the United States” last year due to COVID-19 concerns, it’ll finally make its return on October 30th. This year, it’s being themed after Quetzalcoatl, an important god in Aztec culture. You’ll be able to participate in ceramic skull painting, enjoy music, indulge in great food from vendors, witness the power of cultural performances, and more. To learn more about the festival, click here.

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