SEATTLE — We know The Day of the Dead, "el Día de los Muertos," is a colorful tradition with the lot of skulls. It is often seen referenced in music, art, films and even comedy shows.
But how much we really know about this holiday?
That's exactly why I made a stop at El Centro de la Raza, where they're preparing for the festivities.
"Many of the different South American countries, Central American countries have a different way of doing it, said Veronica Gallard from El Centro de la Raza. "The history goes back to the indigenous peoples of Mexico, specifically in Oaxaca. They have festivals, they have parades. They bring food, they decorate and they put flowers."
It's about remembering the life of those who have passed - with ofrendas.
"We have ofrendas that community organizations have created. The ofrendas have different elements. Earth, wind, water and fire," Gallard said.
And what about that infamous skeleton look?
"That Catrina makeup comes from a belief the Aztecs held," Gallard said.
There is a very specific technique that takes time to complete. You want to make it colorful and make it fun, if you want to do it right.
El Centro de la Raza's celebration of Día de los Muertos takes place on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at El Centro de la Raza's Centilia Cultural Center. This year's theme is "the people without memory is a people without a future" which aims to honor the Earth and those who died from homelessness, mental illness, and gun violence.
The celebration is free and will include live entertainment, children's activities, a raffle and ofrenda exhibit that will be open until Nov. 17.
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