Day of the Dead
Dia de los Muertos is celebrated the first weekend in November at the Mattie Rhodes Art Gallery & Center.
You don’t want to miss this annual event where this colorful Mexican holiday and its traditions are celebrated. All are welcome, and there are a number of visiting artists who are helping to bring the celebration to life. Learn about the meaning of altars, how to make your own and shop for contemporary Day of the Dead art work.
The closing reception and Calaca Night Parade takes place November 5th from 6 – 10 p.m. Live music, incredible and authentic food, an altar showcase and face painting are scheduled. The parade starts at the Tony Aguirre Community Center at 7 p.m. and ends at the West Pennway galleries. Dressing up is encouraged and prizes are available for the most outlandish costume.
A Week of Celebrations
The Nelson-Atkins Museum offers free admission to their special events October 26 – November 6, along with plenty of Day of the Dead activities. Check out the altar installation, including a massive centerpiece located in Kirkwood Hall with over 100 skulls made by local artists. Visitors are welcome to add their own touches to the masterpiece. Readings take place daily from 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Kirkwood Hall and feature Latino writers and poets.
From traditional Mexican Dancers to the Cornisa 20: Grabados de Posadas event with a special welcome from the mayor followed by storytelling and drawings, it’s an event you don’t want to miss. Live music, story time for preschoolers and plenty of authentic cuisine, including scratch-made tamales and Mexican chocolate dishes, sweeten the experience.
