6 ways to celebrate Día de los Muertos in Humboldt
graphic by Raul Cano
Día de los Muertos is a traditional celebration meant to honor the dead and is especially practiced throughout Latin American and the U.S, with strong origins in Indigenous culture. Through the process of European colonization, the celebrations were influenced by the Catholic religion. People who have lost loved ones set up altars called ofrendas. These ofrendas contain marigold flowers, photographs of the deceased, their favorite foods and objects. Día de los Muertos celebrations are usually held on Nov. 1- 2, but sometimes commence in late October.
Local community organization, Centro del Pueblo (CdP), has hosted many Dia de Los Muertos events over the years in Humboldt County. Their recent social media posts have recognized the significance of the days Oct. 27 through Nov. 2.
For example, Oct. 28 is dedicated to those who have lost their lives in accidents, tragedies or by suicide and Oct. 30 is dedicated to the departed who have been forgotten or who died in abandonment.
Below is a list of some of the events occurring throughout Humboldt County this week:
1. Día de los Muertos Procession for Palestinian Child Martyrs
Thursday, Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m.
Being led by the Cal Poly Humboldt Palestinian Solidarity group, this event will commence on the Cal Poly Humboldt’s University Quad and lead to the CdP Jardín Santuario located on the corner of D and 11th St. in Arcata. Social media promo said, “On the 31st, the spirits of children who have died are commemorated. Join us in community to mourn, memorialize and honor the lives of Palestinian children martyred by the Israeli occupation.”
2. El Centro Cultural Académico Dia de los Muertos all day celebration
Friday, Nov. 1 from 1-8 p.m.
Cal Poly Humboldt Goodwin Forum in Nelson Hall East 102
Activities will include Folklorico and Mariachi performances, speeches, an open mic and more. They are now accepting photos, food and flowers for their on campus ofrenda which started on Monday Oct 28.
3. Loleta Annual Harvest Festival
Friday, Nov. 1 from 3-6 p.m.
700 Loleta Dr, Loleta CA 95551
A free and all ages event will include food, stories, resources and cultural demonstrations by Brush Dancers and the Danza Azteca Mexica Club of Cal Poly Humboldt.
4. Production: La Catrina by Centro Del Pueblo (CdP)
Saturday, Nov. 2 from 5-7 p.m.
North Coast Repertory Theatre, Eureka
CdP is hosting an interactive production regarding the history and cultural significance of the Mexican urban legend and icon, La Catrina. Followed by Ballet Folklorico, Danza Azteca, music, a dance party and more!
5. Day of the Dead Festival of Altars/ Dia de Muertos Festival de Altares
Saturday, Nov. 2 from 4-8 p.m.
Old Town Gazebo, Eureka
A free and all ages event including a community ofrenda, rituals, food, music, dancing and free face painting.
6. Día de los Muertos Weekend
Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 2-3 from 7- 11:30 p.m.
Mateel Community Center in Redway
The David Nelson Band special guest Jay Lane will be playing tunes that will keep you dancing to the afterlife to celebrate Día De Los Muertos. This is an all ages event, tickets available on eventbrite.
Link to tickets below:
