On Friday, Nov. 1, from 5 to 7 p.m.
, organizations from across the region will host a community-wide event at Coos Bay Public Library to honor and celebrate Dia de Muertos. The following day, Saturday, Nov. 2, from 5 to 7 p.
m., the celebration will continue at Chetco Activity Center in Brookings. As part of the celebration, Mariachi Monumental, directed by Arturo Zavala, will perform.
Based in Eugene, this group has been showcasing the best in musicianship since 2012, with a wide repertoire of traditional Mexican music. They will play two forty-five-minute sets, adding a vibrant musical element to this event. Dia de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is about the profound bond between the living and the deceased.
When families gather during this time, they commemorate and honor the memories of loved ones who have passed away. This gathering is an act of love, remembrance, and respect, acknowledging that those who have died remain a vital part of the family and community. It’s a time to share stories, traditions, and the joy of life, ensuring that the spirits of the departed are remembered and celebrated.
This beautiful tradition bridges generations and keeps family ties strong across the boundaries of death. For the Day of the Dead celebration, families create altars, known as ofrendas, for their deceased loved ones. The deep meaning of these altars lies in their role as a bridge between the living and the dead.
Altars allow families to honor and remember their departed loved one.