Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday where people celebrate their lost loved ones. According to Mexican folklore tradition, on November 1st and 2nd, the dead cross over from their world to this world and celebrate with their living relatives.

On Nov. 18, 2023, The Mexican Heritage Center hosted a Day of the Dead, or “El Dia de los Muertos” festival in Stockton, California.

Displays of folk dancing and regional bands were featured at the festival, along with a showcase of lowriders, a staple in the Chicano community. Many people attended – some to celebrate, some to learn, and some to have fun with family and friends.

Julienne Hastings, an art teacher at Able Charter and a volunteer at the festival, said she attended to learn new skills and more about the culture. “My favorite part about the festival was learning about catrinas and

seeing the vintage dresses,” Hastings said. “I loved the folk dancers and their beautiful dresses.”

The day of the dead is different for everybody. There is no particular way to celebrate however, according to tradition people create ofrendas to honor their lost loved ones. People also leave food on their graves or on the ofrendas so that when your lost loved ones come to visit they are able to enjoy the things they loved when they were alive.

Many influential people were at the festival including Gracie Madrid, the one in charge of planning the event. “Día de los Muertos is a celebration of life,” Madrid said. “It is colorful and historic in nature.”

Día de los Muertos is a significant global celebration because it helps people heal from losing loved ones and celebrates life joyfully. Many people see this as a beautiful celebration of the Latino community.

Dia de los Muertos is an ancient holiday that originated from the Aztecs and Mayans about 3,000 years ago. Despite its old age, the holiday is growing because it is becoming more popular in countries worldwide.