Dia De Los Muerta

San Diego County websites have posted a flurry of celebrations starting in October and running through Sunday, November 3rd for Dia De Los Muerta, Day of the Dead, which remembers and honors loved ones who have departed. A candlelight parade next Saturday night in Old Town will wind its way through local streets to a cemetery where families have adorned gravesites with flowers, candy, photos and other mementos from the lives of those who have passed. Altars called ofrendas are created in homes as well as public venues for all to enjoy. Anyone inclined to dress for the occasion can choose a festive costume in a wide range of black (what else) options, including skirts, jackets and hats decorated with black lace and colorful flowers. The afterworld theme is repeated in ghostly white and multi-colored skulls and lanky skeletons, with artistic flair and humor on full display in the creative outfits and face paintings. Unlike more somber memorials following funerals, annual Day of the Dead events incorporate music, crafts, dance, tailgate ofrendas and joyous gatherings to celebrate the full cycle of life.

The holiday tradition originated in Mexico and South America. Official dates are October 31-Novermber 2nd. I was inspired by friends in Northern California who wanted to visit San Diego during Day of the Dead to create my own ofrenda to honor my parents whose portraits were recently completed by Amy’s husband, Dustin. Flowers, candles and tissue paper cutouts in the orange color associated with Day of the Dead make up the basic elements, along with jewelry, coins and other mementos from their lives. 

Check out this National Geographic Article  and images for more information on the holiday.
Here’s a sampling of celebrations in San Diego County:  San Diego Day of the Dead Events

An ofrenda for Marvin and Norma Hale, parents of Mila, Vicki, Gary and Lary Hale.