Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is an annual tradition celebrated in many Latin American countries on November 1 and 2. However, many communities hold events throughout October and November. At San Mateo County Libraries we're launching many celebrations leading up to the beginning of November.
Día de Muertos is a time when families gather to remember loved ones who have passed away. Traditionally, November 1 commemorates Día de Los Angelitos, or little angels, referring to children who passed away, and November 2 commemorates adults who have passed away. While the Day of the Dead is especially popular in Mexico, it is also celebrated in the United States where there is a large Mexican immigrant population. Redwood City will host its Día celebration, opens a new window on Sunday, November 6. Be sure to check them out.
San Mateo County Libraries is thrilled to offer several events to celebrate Día de Muertos. The North Fair Oaks Library, and several of our community partners, will be collaborating to offer a large-scale Día de Muertos Celebration, opens a new window at Friendship Park on Friday, November 4, at 4:00 PM.
Celebrate With Us
For full details on all upcoming Día programs, check out each of these events in our calendar.
Papel Picado With Peopleologie
Corn Husk Dolls With Peopleologie, opens a new window
Cascada de Flores: A Musical Ofrenda
Many Latin American families create ofrendas to display inside of their homes or at the cemetery. These ofrendas may include a table that holds family mementos reminding them of relatives, pets or even famous people. Flowers, toys, pictures, drinks and pastries all adorn an ofrenda as gifts to their loved ones. In partnership with local artist Rachel Palacios, many of our libraries will have a community ofrenda.
Come visit our community ofrendas at the following libraries October 30 through November 6: Atherton, opens a new window, Belmont, opens a new window, Brisbane, opens a new window, East Palo Alto, opens a new window, Foster City, opens a new window, Half Moon Bay, opens a new window, Millbrae, opens a new window, North Fair Oaks, opens a new window, Pacifica Sharp Park, opens a new window, Portola Valley, opens a new window, San Carlos, opens a new window and Woodside, opens a new window.
Create With Us
Are you a fan of our arts and crafts programs? If you have seen Disney's Coco, opens a new window, you will know that marigolds and sugar skulls play an important role in ofrendas and Día de Muertos celebrations. Learn how to make paper flower marigolds and sugar skulls at many of our libraries!
Paper Flower Marigolds, opens a new window
Sugar Skulls, opens a new window
Read With Us
Read more about this lovely tradition by checking out these great titles:
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