SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Across the United States and Mexico, people gathered this weekend to celebrate Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, a cherished tradition honoring the memory of lost loved ones.
In Sacramento, the Latino Center of Art and Culture is hosting its 15th annual event on Front Street, offering a vibrant display of Mexican culture and community remembrance.
Under a canopy of bright marigolds, visitors are welcomed by the festive sounds of traditional music and the sight of dancers in colorful attire.
The event showcases the iconic elements of Día de los Muertos—flowers, food, and meticulously crafted altars built to pay tribute to those who have passed.
For Jorge Quintana, of the Latino Center of Art and Culture, this celebration is an opportunity to connect with community and heritage.
"It’s a massive, massive celebration in Latin America," Quintana said. "For us, it's a way to bring Mexico to the community and just keep us connected to our roots."
He emphasized that while death is a universal experience, this holiday allows the community to come together to remember loved ones in a “healthy way.”
One poignant tribute comes from Jess Chairez, a father honoring his late son, Joe.
Joe was a Sacramento police officer who died in 2000, and Jess is grateful that he can continue sharing his son’s story.
“I thank God that they have events like this because I'm able to share stories about our son, Joe,” he said.
Chairez also shared that Joe was an organ donor, which brought an unexpected bond five years after his passing.
“We got to meet the gentleman that has our son's heart, and I can't even explain to you how I feel about putting my head against his chest and hearing my son's heart,” he said, describing the deeply emotional moment.
The event, aptly named El Panteón de Sacramento, serves as a reminder that Día de los Muertos is not solely about mourning, but also about celebrating life and legacy.
“Yes, losing a loved one is very difficult,” Quintana reflected, “but when we come together, there are so many ways we can talk about it together.”
The Latino Center of Art and Culture’s Día de los Muertos event continues Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., inviting the community to join in honoring the memories of those who have passed and to celebrate the resilience of life.
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