We would like to invite you to a cultural community event on Saturday October 27th, 2018 at the Cloverdale Cemetery in Meridian. The Idaho Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will be hosting “Dia de los Muertos” from 3:00 to 8:00 pm complete with traditional fire dancers, face painting, costume and altar contests, and much more!
So, what exactly is Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead? In Mexican culture it is a celebration of life and death. While the holiday originated in Mexico, today it is celebrated all over the world. Day of the Dead is an extremely social holiday that spills into the streets and public squares at all hours of the day and night. People of all ages dress up as skeletons or paint their faces to resemble skulls.
The centerpiece of this celebration is an altar, or ofrenda, built in private homes or cemeteries. These altars and not meant for worshipping; rather, they are meant to welcome spirits back to the realm of the living. The ofrenda is loaded with offerings – water to quench thirst after a long journey, food, family photos, and a candle for each dead relative. If one of the spirits is a child, you might find small toys on the altar.
Marigolds are the main flowers used to decorate the altar. Scattered from altar to gravesite, marigold petals guide wandering souls back to their place of rest. The smoke from copal incense, made from tree resin, transmits praise and prayers and purifies the area around the altar.
This is a free event that will be chocked full of fun activities for the entire family. Visit with local artists and vendors while the kids participate in making their very own clay art and skull masks. Peterson Chevrolet Buick Cadillac and Peterson Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram will be in attendance with some great new vehicles on display, and some great give away items for stopping by their booth!
We hope to see you there!
Cloverdale Cemetery is located at 1200 N Cloverdale Rd. in Meridian
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