FLAGSTAFF — Celebrate cultural traditions at the 16th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente, a lively Day of the Dead festival. Rooted in community, this weekend-long event is presented in partnership with Flagstaff’s Nuestras Raíces. Don’t miss fine art and unique crafts, music and dancing, colorful and elaborate ofrendas (altars), insightful heritage programs and Day of the Dead inspired crafts for the kids.

Admission
Weekend Pass: $18 adult, $12 youth
Daily Admission: $12 adult; $8 youth (11-17), student & American Indian (with ID); children under 10 free.

Courtyard After Dark Saturday, October 26, 5-8 pm
Enjoy an evening viewing of the community ofrendas (altars) against a backdrop of candlelight and strolling mariachi music. Mexican hot chocolate and pan dulce (sweet bread) available for purchase. Dress warm!
Courtyard After Dark Admission: Included with festival admission or $6 per person. Children under 10 free.

Schedule of Events

Saturday

10:00 am- 10:30 Decorating Sugar Skulls on the Patio

10:45-11:15 am Ballet Folklorico performance on the Mainstage

11:30-12:00 pm Mariachi Sol Azteca performance on the Mainstage

12:10-12:30 pm Comparza Texalpan

1:15-1:45 pm Ballet Folklorico performance on the Mainstage

2:00-2:30 pm Ofrenda tour in the Courtyard with Nuestras Raices

2:45-3:15 pm Dance performance

3:30-4:00 pm Mariachi Sol Azteca performance on the Mainstage

4:00-4:20 pm Comparza Texalpan

4:30-5:00 pm Ofrendas 101

5:00-8:00 pm Courtyard After Dark

Sunday

10:00 am- 10:30 Decorating Sugar Skulls on the Patio

10:45-11:15 am Ballet Folklorico performance on the Mainstage

11:00-11:30 am Mariachi Marisol performance in the Courtyard

11:45-12:15 pm Mariachi Sol Azteca performance on the Mainstage

12:30-1:00 pm Lecture with Amanda Blanco

1:00-2:00 pm Cumeres Performance in the Courtyard

1:15-1:45 pm Ballet Folklorico performance on the Mainstage

2:00-2:30 History of Families with Nuestras Raices

2:45-3:15 Dance Performance

3:30-4:00 pm Puebloan Day of the Dead with Ed Kabote

4:15-4:45 pm Mariachi Sol Azteca performance on the Mainstage

4:45-5:00 pm Closing Processional

Heritage Insights presentations

Ofrendas 101 with Delia Ceballos Muñoz

A centuries-old tradition,  ofrendas are an integral aspect of Day of the Dead. In this interactive discussion, Muñoz will discuss the origins of these ritual alters, the symbolism behind them, and demonstrate the process of building a refuge for the tired souls of lost loved ones.

Puebloan Day of the Dead with Ed Kabotie

Artist-in-resident Ed Kabotie will explore the cultural commonalities between the Puebloan and Latin@ celebration of Day of the Dead. In this ‘edutainment’ style presentation, a fusion of music and the spoken word of his own design, Kabotie will foster understanding for the shared traditions of southwestern Pueblo Tribes and Latin@ peoples.

History of Families with Nuestras Raices

Nuestras Raíces, Flagstaff’s organization dedicated to promoting Hispanic culture and history, will present the history of families and the significance of family structure.

Participating Artists & Organizations

alphabetical by last name

Lucia Cartes, Jewelry / Fashion (GG)

Melany Colamarino, Sculpture (BG)

Irene Dominguez, Pottery (BG)

Denise Pacheco, Fine Art / Pottery (GG)

Rick Pacheco, Fine Art / Pottery (GG)

Jess Rick Rodriguez, Fine Art (GG)

Location key:

GG= Geology Gallery

JMG=Jamie Major Golightly Courtyard

BG= Babbitt Gallery

Visit http://musnaz.org/heritage/celebraciones/ for more information