The 10th Celebraciones de la Gente, Saturday and Sunday, October 26 and 27, presents a lively look into traditions embraced by Mexican, Mexican American and Hispanic cultures. Museum grounds will be full of music, dancing, art demonstrations, artist booths, crafts, insightful programming, food and hands-on family activities.
Produced in partnership with Nuestra Raices, an organization of Flagstaff’s Hispanic pioneer families, the festival embraces customs of converting grief into stories, music, dance and fellowship. Nuestras Raices will inspire community involvement with presentations focusing on the history and significance of these ancient cultural traditions.
The Jaime Major Golightly Courtyard will be lined with Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead ofrendas — cultural offerings on altars — beckoning those who have passed. The public is invited to bring offerings for a community altar.
Dia de los Muertos traditions include celebrating the souls of ancestors to encourage a visit to the living: Candles are lit for each family member who has passed. Papel picado banners and sacred copal incense herald the celebration. Golden marigold flowers symbolize the brevity of life and lend a scented pathway to returning spirits. Calaveras (sugar skulls) tempt appetites to return. www.musnaz.org
