Not a Halloween celebration – although attendees can don costumes – and not meant to be a somber event either, the Day of the Dead festival seeks to celebrate the vibrant lives of lost loved ones. And the annual celebration is returning to Tlaquepaque.
The Day of the Dead festival is actually a two-part program. It kicks off on Oct. 30 with the Marigold Mural Project and continues until Nov. 2. Set up at the shopping village, the Marigold Mural Project gives people the chance to paint a tribute on a large mural in honor of their lost loved ones. Tlaquepaque will provide arts supplies. Artist Lovejoy will paint a huge motif in the middle.
The main Day of the Dead festival culminates on Nov. 2. During this time, attendees can look forward to altars that are created in remembrance of the dead, food and arts vendors, flamingo dancers, acrobats that hang from silks, fire dancers at 7 p.m., face painting and sugar skull making. Costumes are welcome. Some will dress as artist Frida Kahlo, skeletons or as brides. Attendees can even bring their favorite libations to the festival. “It’s an eye-candy extravaganza,” says Wendy Lippman, general manager and resident partner of Tlaquepaque. “It’s a celebration.”
Even if you’ve been to the Day of the Dead many times, the altars change every year. Past ones have honored Marilyn Monroe, Senator John McCain, Prince and even pets. Many people will leave their loved one’s favorite food, drinks or even cigarettes on the community altars.
“It’s a time of happiness. A time of remembrance. It’s a time of honor,” says Wendy. “It’s first-class entertainment. I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday evening. There really is something for everyone.” − Teresa K. Traverse
SEDONA CALENDAR: Events, activities, shows, happenings
