Music, merriment, los muertos: Day of the Dead festivities this weekend in Modesto area
Recuérdame? No, it’s not “Coco” — it’s the real thing: Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, begins next week. With roots in indigenous and Latino cultures, the holiday honors and celebrates the dead through colorful altars, flowers and food, as well as music and dancing.
It’s a family-friendly affair and, most of all, a party that will put the fun in funeral.
Here’s a look at where to enjoy the festivities:
RIVERBANK - Oct. 28: The city of Riverbank is kicking off the weekend with music, ballet folklorico, and a catrin/catrina contest. Stop by from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for the fun. Plaza del Rio, 6702 Third St., Riverbank.
SOUTH MODESTO - Oct. 29: Hosted by Stanislaus County agencies and the Center Church, this event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. will have a “trunk or treat” along with prizes throughout the day. Performances include a catrin/catrina pageant contest, Ballet Folklórico Los Facones and Llama Danza Aszteca Kuautli. Bring a 5-by-7 photo or smaller picture to leave at the altar in honor of a loved one. Fairview Park, off Tucson Avenue.
HUGHSON — Oct. 29: This family-friendly event at the Lakewood Memorial Park and Funeral Home will start at 11 a.m. and will feature live musical and dance performances, mini train rides, classic cars, raffles and a number of vendors selling food. Bring a photo of a loved one to place on the altar. 900 Santa Fe Ave., Hughson.
MODESTO’S AIRPORT NEIGHBORHOOD — Oct 30: On Sunday from 4-7:30 p.m., Casa Cultural will show off a community altar and other local exhibits. Families also can grab food, listen to music and enjoy a performance of ballet folklorico. Interested volunteers can sign up on their website. 202 S. Santa Cruz, Modesto. www.casacultural.org.
