Dia de Los Muertos Y Marigold Parade

The first Sunday of November in Albuquerque signifies the Marigold Parade, a vibrant celebration of Dia de los Muertos. This event is a cherished local tradition, renowned for its Calavera art, lively music, and strong sense of community. On this day, people from all corners of Albuquerque gather in the south valley, donning costumes and white faces to honor both the living and the departed.

Dia de Los Muertos: A Meaningful Tradition

Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is an ancient tradition deeply rooted in Mexican culture. This celebration pays homage to those who have passed on, utilizing an altar, or ofrenda, adorned with photographs of the loved ones as well as their favorite belongings, creating a narrative that reflects their lives.

The Artistic Heritage of the Marigold Parade

The Marigold Parade traces its origins to the creative works of Jose Guadalupe Posada, who famously depicted individuals as skeletons or Calaveras. The beauty of this portrayal lies in its universality; when adorned in white-faced skeleton masks, everyone—rich or poor, young or old—attains equal footing. The Posada Calavera exuded joy, often depicted engaging in playful antics, a tradition that thrives in today’s Marigold Parade. Participants express happiness, eschewing somberness, capturing the spirit of celebration.

Dia de Los Muertos Celebration and Marigold Parade

This year’s Marigold Parade is scheduled for November 5, 2017. For more details, please refer to their website.

The highlight of the festivities begins with the parade, where anyone can join in with a float themed around Dia de Los Muertos, decorated with marigolds. Each participant is expected to wear a Calavera costume. Importantly, no typical Halloween costumes, ghosts, or ghouls should be included, thus maintaining the event’s family-friendly atmosphere.

The procession starts at the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s substation, located at Centro Familiar and Isleta, and proceeds northward on Isleta towards the Westside Community Center at 1250 Isleta Boulevard. The festivities kick off at 2 p.m., featuring a dazzling array of floats adorned with marigolds and brought to life by dedicated participants. Additionally, low riders and classic cars from local clubs contribute to the parade’s charm. Generally, the parade concludes by 3 p.m., but the celebration continues at the community center until 6 p.m.

Following the parade, attendees can indulge in a variety of food, music, and art at the Westside Community Center, which also showcases a large display of altars.

Arts and Crafts Fair

The Dia de los Muertos Arts and Crafts Fair offers an exquisite collection of fine art, folk crafts, clothing, and other items that resonate with Dia de Los Muertos or Mexican/Chicano themes. All presented works must be original, encouraging a personal touch over mass-produced items.

A Festive Atmosphere

Culinary delights await attendees, while captivating music fills the air, inspiring dance and celebration. The parade encourages participants of every age to dress in traditional Calavera attire, showcasing women in large hats and elegant vintage gowns alongside men in suits and top hats, creating an extraordinary assemblage of joyful skeletons celebrating life.

Altars: Honoring the Departed

At the community center, altars or ofrendas pay tribute to those who have significantly touched lives, from family members to historical leaders. These altars honor the positive influences individuals had, often featuring photographs, mementos, favorite foods, and even cups of water, symbolizing nourishment for the deceased. Marigolds, paper flowers, and dishes of salt complement these tributes, highlighting the importance of remembrance. The creativity in altar design varies, allowing for either elaborate or simple interpretations, all focused on honoring those who have passed.

Parking for the Marigold Parade

Parking is available in the vicinity of the parade route. Note that entry must be from the south via Rio Bravo or from the west via Coors Street, as Isleta will be closed near the community center.

The South Broadway Cultural Center will also host a Dia de Los Muertos celebration on the same day, expanding the opportunities for community engagement.

The Mission Statement of the Parade and Celebration

Our mission is to promote cultural self-determination, strengthen community ties, and facilitate cultural exchange through intergenerational learning and artistic expression via art, music, food, dance, and political satire. We aim to foster pride in South Valley and cultural identity through grassroots, non-corporate initiatives.