Dia de los Muertos 2015

If there is one takeaway from the Mexican tradition of Día de los Muertos, it is to embrace something everyone must face: death.

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is the celebration of life and death held Nov. 1 and 2, when souls are said to visit their loved ones here on Earth for one night. It is the chance each year to dance, dine and reconnect with the dead.

“It’s really based on indigenous beliefs of life and death being a continuum,” says Marie Acosta, artistic and executive director of Latino Center of Art and Culture.

Traditionally, overnight gatherings are held at the grave sites of the deceased. In Sacramento, a growing number of organizations host Día de los Muertos events in graveyards, as well as galleries, parking lots and other sites around the city.

No matter the setting, the purpose is the same: to welcome the dead home with vibrance and jubilation.

“There’s a lot of color and a lot of music and community,” says Acosta.

People construct beautiful altars, or “ofrendas,” where they place photos of the dead and welcome them with offerings of “pan” (bread) and other food, water or alcohol, and some earthly possessions the departed treasured. Strong incense called copal is lit and music is played so the souls of the dead can find their way home.

This weekend, opportunities to experience this rich cultural tradition will take place throughout the region. An array of Halloween events will also be happening, so why not celebrate both holidays? Read on to find out how you can party with the living and honor the dead this weekend.