We attended Hollywood Forever Día de los Muertos press event for review purposes.
Familiar with the Day of the Dead, also known as Día de los Muertos? It’s a beautiful family tradition of celebrating the souls of the dead as they are welcomed back by their loved ones to the ‘land of the living.’ The Mexican holiday has been gaining widespread popularity over the past couple of years with the animated movies, Coco and the Book of Life.
For its 19th consecutive year, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery presents it’s exceptional Día de los Muertos festival on October 27. This year’s theme is Coatlicue – the Aztec goddess who gave birth to the moon, stars and sun. Come out to celebrate the holiday with a mix of culture, art, music, history, and community. For the festival day, the cemetery is adorned with beautiful artwork, four stages feature live musical performances, and attendees will find lots of arts & crafts and food options.
At last week’s advance press preview, we got a glimpse of guests can see on October 27. Live performances will include contemporary dance groups, ballet folklorico, and traditional music.
Danza XOCOYOTE de Los Angeles graced us with their percussive ceremonial dance, beautiful headdresses, and colorful, festive costumes.
Nothing helps create an escape for me like the smells and flavors of foods. We escaped into the savory deliciousness of homemade tamales and Mexican fare from Frida. Don’t miss the handspun organic cotton candy at the Love Swirls Desserts’ cart. I highly recommend the Mango Habanero flavor – it has a kick to it.
The Altar exhibits, known as ofrenda or offering in Spanish, are definitely the highlight of this festival, and the holiday. This year, there is a record-breaking number of ofrenda registrants and three monetary prizes. For those new to the holiday – ofrendas are altars decorated to greet the spirits of those who are returning for Día de los Muertos. At each Mexican home, families leave offerings of food, drinks and things that the deceased loved in life. These offerings are meant to nourish them after their long journey. The Ofrenda is a crucial part of the tradition of Día de los Muertos and keeps us connected to our loved ones.
At this year’s festival, families can visit the Children’s Art Center from 12:00-6:00 pm for arts and crafts, face painting and more. Feeling creative? Join the costume contest. Photographers, this is a colorful event you won’t want to miss.
This unique celebration takes place on October 27 from 12:00 -8:00 pm at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. For ticket information, visit https://www.ladayofthedead.com/ for more information.
