The Day of the Dead is not at all like Halloween. The two days that comprise the Day of the Dead celebration are actually public holidays in Mexico. It is not surprising, then, that since there is a significant number of people from Mexico and with ancestors from Mexico in Arizona, that Day of the Dead is a popular celebration here.
The Arizona Museum of Natural History (formerly known as the Mesa Southwest Museum) provided us with this explanation of El Día de los Muertos, or, in English, Day of the Dead:
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The Day of the Dead is a ritual the indigenous people of Mexico have been practicing for more than 3,000 years. It is still celebrated in Mexico as well as certain parts of the United States
and Central America. Native Aztecs and other Meso-American civilizations viewed death as the continuation of life rather than the end.
In the United States and certain parts of Mexico it is traditional for families to build in-home altars dedicated to the dead. They place flowers, food, pictures of the deceased and lighted candles around the altars.
Many Valley cities host Day of the Dead celebrations each year on the first two days of November. People will sometimes don wooden skull masks and dance to honor deceased loved ones. The wooden skulls, or calacas, are also placed on altars. A relative or a friend often eats sugar skulls, bearing the name of the dead person on the forehead.
Day of the Dead Celebrations/Exhibits in the Phoenix Area
Events and activities appear in date order.
Dia de Los Muertos with Hank Tusinski: Cajitas & Artworks
An altar, “The Last Tango” by featured artist Hank Tusinski of Tucson, along with contemporary interpretations by various artists who have invented new works based on the meanings and traditions of leaving a legacy. Admission is free, and gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Vision Gallery, Chandler.
In 2011: October 7 - November 12
Día de los Muertos at the Desert Botanical Garden
View Ofrenda installations by local and renowned artists. On October 29 and 20 see the interactive altar honoring Día de los Muertos. The Garden’s past and present and the act of gardening itself. Mexican food, pastries and beautiful Mexican art will be available for purchase in the Gardens Mercado. Free with Garden admission. Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.
In 2011: October 21 - November 2
Burton Barr Central Library, Phoenix
An exhibit of artist-made altars inspired by Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). In anticipation of Arizona's centennial in February of 2012, this year's exhibit is titled "Adorned in Memories, Written in Stone." The title is evocative of the ways generations of Arizonans have honored the memories of their loved ones in their hearts and in public spaces. Free admission.
In 2011: October 24 - November 5
The Days of the Dead Workshops
The Florence Community Library presents two evening workshops from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for youth, grades 5 through 8. Artist Annette McDougall will work with participants to create and construct shadow boxes while learning the meaning behind this traditional holiday in Mexico. Participants are asked to bring a photo of a family member. These programs are free and seating is limited. Call (520) 868-8311 for more information, and to make a reservation.
In 2011: October 25 and November 1
Dia De Los Muertos at el Pedregal
Adelante Gallery will feature Day of the Dead Art and Imagery by local artists such as paintings and jewelry showing the holiday’s famous skeletons. Urban Quartet with perform live on the courtyard stage on Sunday, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Spotted Donkey Cantina will be offering specialty Black Bean and Pork Tamales served with Rice and Pico Slaw in addition to the “Cauldron” specialty martini served with olive purple vodka, soda water, cranberry/lime, spooky dry ice and a gummy worm garnish. of Scottsdale Road and Carefree Highway.
In 2011: October 29, 30
Dia de los Muertos Celebration
An artist Mercado showcasing an assortment of traditional and contemporary merchandise, jewelry, and arts and crafts. Live artist demonstrations, live traditional music and dance, childrens activities. Community altar. Free admission. Mesa Arts Center.
In 2011: October 29, 30
Día de los Muertos: A Celebration of Life through Music
A two-day event featuring multiple activities, performances, and opportunities for the community to celebrate and learn about this cultural tradition. Guests are encouraged to bring photos, mementos, and other ofrendas (offerings) honoring their loved ones to the community altar. There will be a a display of altars created by local children; music-inspired crafts such as calaca (skeleton) shakers, mini-altars, and guitar decorations; a mercado (market) featuring one-of-a-kind Mexican art, gifts, and jewelry available for purchase; and screenings of the Mexican short film, "Hasta los Huesos." Performers and artists will be on hand. Entrance to all Día de los Muertos events is included in general museum admission. Musical Instrument Museum, Phoenix.
In 2011: November 5, 6
Celebrating Day of the Dead at home? Why not combine a cooking activity! Check out this amazing recipe for Day of the Dead Cupcakes from the District American Kitchen & Wine Bar in Phoenix.
All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.
