Día de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, has been around for many centuries.This year, the celebration takes place from Thursday, Oct. 31, to Saturday, Nov. 2.
Ferris business administration junior and Sigma Lambda Gamma member Lezley Rodriguez recognizes the importance of Día de los Muertos.
“It is a day to remember all the deceased people in your life,” Rodriguez said.
Día de los Muertos is a tradition unlike most. Rooted in ancient Aztec cultures, it is celebrated primarily in Mexico and Guatemala. Día de los Muertos celebrates death, instead of mourning it. People set out altars to place many things reminding them of their deceased loved ones. The key to this celebration is remembering their spirits live on and within you.
Ferris Spanish program coordinator Dr. Eric Warner celebrates by setting an altar by his office for people to put their personal things on to celebrate a loved one’s life. He said he really began to celebrate Día de los Muertos when his grandfather died, and his spouse was the one who brought this celebration into his home.
According to Warner and Rodriguez, a couple different events will be held on campus to honor the holiday. Warner is helping to put on a festival for Día de los Muertos 10 a.m. — 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31, at the West Campus Community Center. The festival will have free food and altars.
Members of Sigma Lambda Gamma (including Rodriguez) and Sigma Lambda Beta are also hosting a Day of the Dead Ball 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1, in UCB 202B and 202C. The ball will include a dinner, dance, altar and a presentation to inform people about Día de los Muertos. This event is free of charge, and open to the public, but you must RVSP.