Day of the Dead Celebrations

The trick-or-treating is over. Time to put away the decorations and welcome November. Growing up, our kitchen would smell wonderful the night of Halloween. My mom would be up making calabasa (sweet pumpkin fudge) to be enjoyed the next day, The Day of the Dead. November 1st is the Day of the Dead in Mexican Culture and it is a day to remember our loved ones that have passed away.

My abuelito (grandfather) loved Calabasa and she would make it in his honor. I think she still makes it, along with other of his favorite foods.

The Muckenthaler Center in Fullerton, is having a Day of the Dead Festival tomorrow from 5pm to 9pm. The Free festival features Mariachis, Ballet Folklorico, Day of the Dead Altars, sugar skulls and storytelling. There is a family friendly kid corner that features crafts designed for the kiddos.

For additional info head here. To learn more about the Day of the Dead head here (Smithsonian).

Where: Muckenthaler Center

1201 West Malvern Avenue

Fullerton, California 92833

What: Day of the Dead Festival

Time: 5pm to 9pm

Admission: Free

One of my favorite places in Southern California, The Autry National Center, which was known before as the Gene Autry Museum, is holding a very special event this upcoming Saturday, October 30th.

The Autry pays homage to the dearly departed with a lively Day of the Dead festival featuring festive performers with skull-painted faces, Oaxacan and Aztec dancers, Catrinas sculpture display, Mexican food, activities, local artists selling their works, altar displays, a large Community Altar, and a special Day of the Dead concert by Quetzal.

The Day of the Dead is a very special day in Mexican culture. As a child I loved hearing the stories my parents would share about the festivals in Mexico and learning about this special day when our family members and ancestors that had passed away were remembered. My mom would always make my grandfather’s favorite pumpkin dessert and would share with us memories of her dad. It is a very fun celebration and one that I hope I can share with my children.

The festival is included with general admission to the museum. I have 2 family four packs of tickets to give away. This is a great museum and has a very fun children’s section. Not only will you be able to participate in a very fun and unique celebration, you will also be able to enjoy the rest of this very fun museum.

To learn more about this fun celebration and about the Autry National Center head here.

If you would like to attend this very fun event and spend a fun day at the Autry National Center, Leave a comment and let me know why you would like to visit. That’s it! You have until Tuesday, November 26th to enter. Good Luck!