Levine Museum of the New South and the Latin American Coalition mark two decades of honoring Mexican culture through vibrant traditions, music and art

CHARLOTTE – The Latin American Coalition, in partnership with the Levine Museum of the New South, is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Día de Muertos Festival from noon-8 p.m. Nov. 2 at Camp North End, 1774 Statesville Ave. 

The wildly popular, free, family-friendly festival – which welcomed more than 10,000 visitors last year – is an immersive celebration of the art, cuisine and rituals that define Día de Muertos, including an expansive altar exhibition, traditional face painting, dancing, and live music performances. Attendees will also be able to savor authentic Latin cuisine while learning about the holiday’s deep-rooted traditions.

“In line with our mission to promote belonging to an inclusive and diverse society, the Latin American Coalition invites you to learn about and celebrate the bond with those who are no longer with us, just as communities in Mexico and parts of Central America do,” says José Hernández-París, CEO of the Latin American Coalition. “We hope that this activity allows us to all be members of a culturally diverse environment enriched by different perspectives to enhance our everyday culture.”

Día de Muertos is a Mexican holiday with roots in indigenous cultures dating back to the Aztecs that honors the deceased as part of the natural cycle of life. This holiday celebrates death with vibrant customs, symbolizing the belief that it is not the end, but a continuation of existence.

New this year, organizers are welcoming the community to participate in the festivities in a variety of ways:

Calaveras Literarias Story Readings: These playful, satirical poems or stories humorously reflect on death and are a traditional way of celebrating the inevitability of morality. At our festival, you can enjoy a variety of Calaveras brimming with wit and charm. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just love a good laugh, we encourage everyone to get creative and contribute to the fun. Deadline for submission is Oct. 25, and entries will be shared on festival digital platforms. Some will be performed live by the authors during the festival. Criteria for submission and additional information on the event website.  

Catrina Parade: Dressing as La Catrina, a traditional figure symbolizing death, is a festive way to acknowledge morality and honor those who have died. Those interested in representing and/or wearing a costume, visit the event website to register and find more details. 

Altar Exhibition: Altars, or ofrendas, are adorned with candles, food, photos, and mementos and are a central part of Día de Muertos, guiding the spirits of loved ones back to celebrate with their families. The festival’s altar setup process spans three days: installation on Friday, exhibition on Saturday, and dismantling on Sunday. LAC will provide each altar creator with fruits, Pan de Muerto, a bouquet of marigold flowers, and possibly incense. For more details and to register to build an altar, visit the event website. 

Some of the other traditions that guests can expect at this year’s festival include:

  • Marigold Flower Making: Marigolds, or cempasúchil, are believed to guide spirits back to the world of the living with their vibrant colors and strong scent. 
  • Criss Cross Mangosauce: This interactive bilingual performance engages children with stories, songs and activities that connect to the traditions of Día de Muertos, fostering a deeper cultural understanding that children will love.
  • Jewelry Making: Creating and wearing jewelry with symbolic Día de Muertos elements is a way to honor and remember ancestors.
  • Skull Decorating: Decorated skulls, or calaveras, represent loved ones who have passed and celebrate the belief that death is a joyful continuation.
  • Folkloric Dancing and Mariachi Band: Song and dance are an integral part of this celebration, symbolizing joy, pride and remembrance through lively, communal expressions.

“With the Latin American community being one of the largest immigrant groups in the Charlotte region, we are excited to be a part of this monumental event where guests can connect with their roots and other individuals can learn more about this sacred holiday,” says Richard Cooper, Levine Museum President & CEO. “It has become a staple of this city every single year, and we hope that guests find their own unique way to honor their loved ones through this event.” 

The 20th Day of Day Festival is sponsored by Atrium Health, Bank of America, Rodriguez Produce, Teran Insurance, Mecklenburg County’s HOMES Program and Culture Blocks— a community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County.

For more information on this event, visit the festival website, latinamericancoalition.org/dia-de-muertos or https://www.museumofthenewsouth.org/lmns-events/festival-dia-de-muertos-2024/.