Five fiestas to attend around town this Dia De Los Muertos
Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a holiday tradition originating from the Aztecs who used skulls to commemorate the dead a millennium before Mexico, according to History.com.
In the 16th century, the Spanish conquered the Aztecs empire, which is when the Catholic Church changed the rituals honoring the dead to All Saints Day (November 1) and All Souls Day (November 2), says the source.
Over time this developed into what we know today as Dia De Los Muertos, a fusion of Latin American indigenous traditions and Catholic practices to honor those who have moved on to the afterlife.
There are several ceremonies and rituals practiced on November 1 and 2 to honor loved ones who have passed on such as building an altar with candles, photos and letters dedicated to the person (an ofrenda).
Another way to celebrate the lives of those we miss is to gather with family and friends to reminisce on the happy memories shared with lost loved ones. There are many unique places in town offering warm festivities to partake in on these special days.
Here are five fiestas to attend with those who are closest to your heart to drink, eat and pay homage to the kindreds you miss.
Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Festival
On Tuesday, November 2 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. the Dia De Los Muertos Festival will take place at the Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza in Lorenzi Park, 720 Twin Lakes Drive. The event is free and open to the public. The festival includes performances by the Chaparral High School’s Mariachi Band, vocalist Sara Loera, Mexico Avivo Dance among others.
This family-friendly occasion includes local artisan booths, food trucks, face painting, an exhibition featuring altars created by community organizations and more.
For making plans, check out Dia Los Muertos Festival event listing on the City of Las Vegas’ web page for details.
2021 20th Life In Death Festival
Winchester Dondero Cultural Center (3130 S. McLeod Drive) is hosting their 2021 20th Life In Death Festival on November 1 and 2. Both days include live performances by Mexican dance troupes plus readings of “calaveras” of “skulls” which are usually humorous poems.
On display there will be ofrendas, a Mexican tradition which is an altar built in loving memory of relatives and friends decorated with items they left behind and special sentimental offerings.Genuine Mexican crafts, food, drinks and samples of a holiday bread specifically made for this day will be handed out to festival attendees.
Additional information is available on Clark County’s website.
Dia De Los Muertos at Springs Preserve
From November 5 to November 7, Springs Preserve (333 S. Valley View Boulevard) is recognizing Dia De Los Muertos with live entertainment, gorgeous altars, traditional foods, games, and craft activities. Festivities will be held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The events are fit for all ages, but space is limited. Guests may also find peace by strolling through the calming Botanical Garden as they remember their loved ones.
Snag tickets to this fun-filled event on Springs Preserve’s website. Tickets are only available on their website.
Celebrate at Casa Calvera at Virgin Hotels
Casa Calavera at Virgin Hotels (4455 Paradise Road) is a restaurant celebrating Dia De Los Muertos everyday. From the restaurant’s vibrant sugar skull murals to their celebratory dishes served specially for this weekend, this is a great place to meet with your kin to honor this holiday.
November 1 the restaurant teams up with Jewel Nightclub to boost the fiesta vibes in the space. Specials will be served such as enchiladas and tamales for guests to eat.
November 2 they will have a Dia De Los Muertos themed Taco Tuesday with a DJ set from 8 p.m to 10:30 p.m.
Save your seat by securing your reservation for the holiday weekend.
Drinks at Nightmare on Spring Mountain
For a casual outing, sip on specialty themed drinks this holiday weekend at Nightmare on Spring Mountain at The Sand Dollar Lounge (3355 Spring Mountain Road Suite 30). Wear sugar skull makeup and share stories over cocktails to keep the spirits of those you miss alive and well.
Served in skull mugs try the Dark Star, which is a new twist on a Hot Toddy or sip on a Soul Sacrifice, a fresh take on a Moscow Mule offered in a sugar skull mug.
The Day of the Dead party will be held on November 1 from 3 p.m. to 11:55 p.m.
Make a reservation for the party on The Sand Dollar Lounge’s website.
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