The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department, in partnership with PLAY, Inc., Allan Hancock College, and the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District, invites the community to the 16th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration.
The event, which is free to attend, will be 1-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25 in Allan Hancock College’s Fine Arts Building F, 800 S. College Drive.
The Día de los Muertos Celebration pays tribute to the memories of loved ones who have passed, while sharing the art, traditions, and cultural significance of Día de los Muertos.
Community members can experience an afternoon of cultural activities and crafts, food and artisan vendors, live traditional music and dance performances, community and family altars, and the Tree of Life.
This year’s celebration will also feature a Catrín and Catrina Contest and a Chalk Art Contest.
The Catrín and Catrina Contest will showcase Día de los Muertos-inspired attire, makeup, and creativity, with contestants competing for cash prizes.
The Chalk Art Contest invites artists ages 14 and older to create original artwork inspired by the symbolism, and traditions of Día de los Muertos.
Participation is free, but space is limited and registration is accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Completed artwork will be displayed during the celebration, where community members will vote for their favorite piece. Winners will be announced at 5:30 p.m.
Traditional elements of Día de los Muertos, including marigolds, sugar skulls, face painting, and ofrendas, will be featured.
Altars decorated with photographs, favorite foods, flowers, and meaningful mementos will provide opportunities to remember and honor loved ones while sharing in the associated traditions of Dia de los Muertos.
Direct questions to the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department , 805-925–0951 ext. 2260 or email rpinfo@cityofsantamaria.org.