Downtown Aurora embraces Latino traditions through celebration of Día De Los Muertos
By: Athziry Torres
Día de Los Muertos or Day of the Dead is a Mexican tradition where families prepare to welcome the spirits of relatives that have passed away. It is celebrated from November 1st through November 2nd but the preparations begin up to a week before.
Typically families will set up an ofrenda dedicated to loved ones; decorated with photographs, candles, cempasúchil flowers, personal objects, and favorite food and drinks of whoever the ofrenda is devoted to.
Typically families will set up an ofrenda dedicated to loved ones; decorated with photographs, candles, cempasúchil flowers, personal objects, and favorite food and drinks of whoever the ofrenda is devoted to.
Photo credit: Roberto Robles
In an interview with Jose Torres, founder of Athziry Día De Los Muertos, a non-profit organization, he describes his experience and his interpretation of this tradition.
“The cemetery was always decorated and the smell of flowers filled the air. Everyone celebrates alongside each other, the living and the dead.”
“It's a moment where you share with the dead and the dead share with you.”
14 years ago, Jose brought his vision to life by bringing Día De Los Muertos to Aurora. His initial idea was for it to be a small celebration that started in the homes of his family members.
He wanted the purpose of this organization, “to promote our culture through Día De Muertos.” Today, Jose’s small intimate gatherings have grown into a beautiful celebration within the Aurora community.
This year the theme will be Pan De Muertos, a type of pan dulce typically made during the weeks leading up to the Day of the Dead.
“The cemetery was always decorated and the smell of flowers filled the air. Everyone celebrates alongside each other, the living and the dead.”
“It's a moment where you share with the dead and the dead share with you.”
14 years ago, Jose brought his vision to life by bringing Día De Los Muertos to Aurora. His initial idea was for it to be a small celebration that started in the homes of his family members.
He wanted the purpose of this organization, “to promote our culture through Día De Muertos.” Today, Jose’s small intimate gatherings have grown into a beautiful celebration within the Aurora community.
This year the theme will be Pan De Muertos, a type of pan dulce typically made during the weeks leading up to the Day of the Dead.
Photo credit: City of Aurora
Over 42 businesses are taking part in this event, including vendors from Oaxaca, Aguascalientes, Michoacán, and Zacatecas. The majority participate in Sugar Skull City, a month-long event that honors Mexican Culture and incorporates Aurora businesses.
Photo credit: Athziry Torres
Jose’s event is one of many that will be taking place Friday, November 4th included in Aurora’s First Fridays. There will be baile folklorico, danza azteca, tamborazo, multiple singers, and much more.
The turnout is expected to be bigger than in past years. Jose mentions, “ Ni me la creo, with all the people that are excited to be a part of this event.”
This annual occasion is for the entire community where they can go and enjoy a night filled with culture and cheerful celebration dedicated to our loved ones who have passed.
A more detailed schedule is available on: https://auroradowntown.org/calendar/
The turnout is expected to be bigger than in past years. Jose mentions, “ Ni me la creo, with all the people that are excited to be a part of this event.”
This annual occasion is for the entire community where they can go and enjoy a night filled with culture and cheerful celebration dedicated to our loved ones who have passed.
A more detailed schedule is available on: https://auroradowntown.org/calendar/