NAPA EL DIA DE LOS MUERTOS ALTARS VIEWING AND CELEBRATION OF LIFE

El Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) will be observed Saturday October 31st through Sunday, November 1st in Napa and will feature the exhibition of twenty-eight, six foot tall, elaborately decorated altars--the largest exhibition of altars ever in the valley. Altars are erected annually by community members in Napa, largely Mexican-Americans, in memory of family members and friends who have passed away, and sometimes for public figures or victims of tragedy or social injustice. Typically filled with brightly colored blooms--whether freshly picked marigolds or crepe paper flowers, assembled by hand --altars also feature candles, skulls, special breads, and favorite foods and other items enjoyed by the departed. Each altar is a unique blend of artistic vision, adherence to tradition, and personal memories.

El Día de Los Muertos observances will be held in the Harvest Middle School gym, at 2449 Old Sonoma Road in Napa, a space large enough to host this large exhibition, while protecting altars and celebrants in the event of rain. October 31st, 10am to 4pm will be a time for quiet reflection while visiting the altars. November 1st, noon to 4pm, the exhibit will coincide with a festive celebration of life for our loved ones , featuring traditional music, Aztec Dancers and Ballet Folklorico, face painting, craft activities, professional story telling by Olga Loya and delicious Mexican food. Admission and all activities are free. Food and beverages will be for sale.

El Día de Los Muertos is organized by the Napa Valley Latino Heritage Committee in partnership with Harvest Middle School. It is sponsored by Napa Valley Unified School District, Napa Valley Vintners, Community Projects, Inc., Napa Valley Education Foundation, Puertas Abiertas Community Resource Center and Supervisor Alfredo Pedroza. Questions about El Día de Los Muertos can be directed to Juan Diaz at 707-337-2970 or nvlatinoheritage@gmail.com.