To honor the memory of their deceased loved ones, the peoples of ancient mesoamérica (e.g., the Azteca, Tolteca, and Olmeca) held elaborate festivals and processions with music, dance, food, and flowers. Today, the tradition—known as Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead)—is continued by Mexicans, Mexican Americans, and the U.S. mainstream society as well. Celebrations take place on November 1st and 2nd.
Intellectually and artistically, the cultures of Latinas/os are among the most important of the américas. The population of Greeley is 35% Latina/o, with the majority comprised of Mexican ancestry. Recognizing the historical, cultural, and demographic significance of its Latina/o population, the Greeley Creative District has organized its inaugural Día de Los Muertos celebration, which will take place on Saturday, October 28th.
There will be many activities and events throughout a variety of venues in Greeley. Each location will feature its unique interpretation of the special day with traditional as well as innovative elements. We invite all ages of Latinas/os and non-Latinas/os alike to join in the contemporary celebrations.
The Greeley Farmers’ Market, located at Zoe’s Café & Events on 715 10th Street, will host “Día Delights” from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. In addition to the regular food and beverage vendors, the family-friendly marketplace will feature free altar displays, face-painting, and a themed crafting section.
High Plains Library District will celebrate the day at two of its Weld County locations. “Día Demonstrations & Storytelling” will be held at the Centennial Library located on 2227 23rd Avenue from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, including candy skull crafts, genealogy support, and information on how to create your own traditional altar displays. Throughout the day, Lincoln Park Library Branch on 1012 11th Street will host “Día Decorating” workshops on home decorating.
Later in the day, join fellow Greeley “Creatives” for a reception at the Tointon Gallery in the Union Colony Civic Center at 701 10th Street from 4:00 to 5:30 pm, where you will see a juried exhibit of beautiful altares (altars) lovingly made by local artists and community members. The reception will mark the closing of the exhibit, which will run from Friday, October 13th through Saturday, October 28th.
For more information on joining this joyful festival, please contact Genie at genie.canales@unco.edu or Jason at Jason.evenson@greeleygov.com. We’d love to see your support and make this an annual Greeley event!
