By: Morgan Epperly
Next week, hundreds of Latin Americans will fill the streets with vibrant colors in a celebration of life on the Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. On November 2, the Levine Museum of the New South will partner with the Latin American Coalition to host festivities to involve the city of Charlotte in this Mexican tradition.
November 1-2 is the time of grand celebration to honor the dead. This tradition originates with the conquistadors that traveled from Spain to the Americas in the 16th century. They combined their Catholic culture with that of the native Aztecs to create this Mexican holiday. The traditional celebration of the day of the dead includes storytelling, altar and gravesite decorating, and, of course, food.
The Day of the Dead is dedicated to commemorating the dead. In an effort at celebration over sorrow, these days are filled with laughter and remembrance of the deceased. Anecdotes and fun stories are told in memory of those who have left.
Elaborate decoration is an important part of celebrating the dead. A common theme is calaveras and calacas, or skulls and skeletons, as well as personal items. Decorating the altars and gravesites displays all of the treasures of those who have passed. Friends and family use favorite foods, toys, and knickknacks to represent the person’s life. There are even competitions for who decorates the best altar.
Also central to the festivities is food. Traditional culinary offerings include skulls made from a sugar mixture. The skulls are decorated with colorful candies and chocolates to depict a happy soul. Another celebratory dish is pan de muerto. This is a sweet bread that is both eaten and used as decoration on altars. The bread is made fit for the occasion with colored sugars and additional bone-shaped bread pieces.
Charlotteans interested in participating in the event can enjoy free admission at the Levine Museum uptown on Sunday, November 2. Visitors will find traditional altars, food, and a range of activities. Festivities begin at noon and end at 4 p.m. Parking will also be free.
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