PILSEN — Pilsen neighbors will take to the streets to honor the memory of loved ones who have passed away with a nighttime skeleton processional and sidewalk altar displays known as ofrendas this weekend.
Arts group ElevArte and SGA Youth and Family Services will celebrate Dia De Los Muertos with the 40th annual Muertos de la Risa processional Saturday in Pilsen. The event will kick off at 2 p.m. Saturday in Dvorak Park, 1119 W. Cullerton St. with face painting, free pan de puerto (Mexican sweet bread) and hot chocolate.
Musical and dance performances will begin at 2:30 p.m. in the park.
At 5 p.m., participants in Day of the Dead-inspired costumes can join in on the community processional through Pilsen with large skeleton puppets, adorned carts and ofrendas.
Day of the Dead, the annual Mexican tradition that honors the deceased, begins from October 31 through November 2. The days coincide with the Catholic holidays All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, but the holiday was born from ancient Aztec traditions.
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