Dia de Los Muertos will be celebrated at Garden Plaza on Main Street in Visalia on Saturday, October 25. This celebration of life, which will begin with a traditional Aztec blessing, is about remembering the lives of loved ones and honoring ancestors. It’s about the cycle of life and learning not to be afraid of death.
Dia de Los Muertos is traditionally celebrated November 1 for the innocent (children), and November 2 for adults. Altars are built by community members and family members, most holding to tradition with a photo of the honoree, their favorite food, water, candles, marigold flowers, an arch and incense. This is believed to help the spirit of the deceased find their way back for the annual visit.
Dia de Los Muertos is presented by the Tulare County League of Mexican-American Women, a nonprofit organization celebrating 35 years of community involvement, including awarding more than $250,000 in scholarships to Tulare County students.
Entertainment will be provided by local Folklorico dance groups, a guitar group and other local talent. The event will also feature food vendors and arts and crafts booths, many with the theme of the day. There will be a children’s free art booth and face painting.
The event starts at 11am and ends at 4pm. For more information, call Chairperson Virginia Arenas at 909-3411.