Redlands To Celebrate Día De Los Muertos With Food, Music And Art Nov. 1

REDLANDS, CA — The A.K. Smiley Public Library will host a free Día de los Muertos celebration Sunday, Nov. 1, featuring live music, traditional dance, community ofrendas, family activities and food, the city announced on Tuesday.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Smiley Park, south of the library, and the Contemporary Club, the city said.

Smiley Park activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and include face painting, crafts and a viewing of the teen art contest in the library's Assembly Room.

At the Contemporary Club, community groups and families will display ofrendas, or traditional altars honoring deceased loved ones. The event will also feature a presentation by local artist Nancy Nieto.

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a cultural tradition that honors deceased family members and friends through offerings, food, art and remembrance.

Organizers invite residents of all ages to attend the celebration, learn about the tradition and participate in the community activities.

A Catrina and Calavera costume contest will be held for children ages 4 to 12. Live entertainment will include Mariachi Bohemia and a performance by St. Mary's Ballet Folklorico, the city said.

Free food from Taqueria y Panaderia del Valle and ice cream from Nichos Ice Cream will be available beginning at 11 a.m., while supplies last, the city said.