The Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Family Festival is on Sunday, October 30th in Santa Maria, Calif.

SANTA MARIA, CA, USA, October 6, 2016 /EINPresswire.com/ -- (Santa Maria, Calif.) – Sugar skull and altars will be on display at the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Family Festival on Sunday, October 30th from noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Veterans’ Memorial Community Center, 313 West Tunnell Street.

This free, family-friendly event includes a traditional procession, altar displays, food and arts vendors, crafts and art gallery, live entertainment and much more for the family to enjoy.

Everyone is welcome to create an altar in memory of a deceased loved one. Altar creation is free, and pre-registration is required. Applications must be submitted to the Recreation and Parks Department (615 South McClelland Street) by Friday, October 21st.

Dia de los Muertos is rooted in Hispanic and Central-American traditions, and originated centuries ago with the ancient indigenous Aztecs. They honored the lives of their late family members by creating and decorating beautiful altars with colorful flowers and favorite belongings of the departed. The tradition continued and has become popular in the United States.

“It’s a day of celebrating continued reverence for death and those who have passed,” said Cindy Hoskins, recreation supervisor at the City of Santa Maria. “In Santa Maria, the cultural celebration allows community members to celebrate and remember the lives of family and friends. All cultures are welcome to participate in this celebration.”
This year’s festival includes a Catrines and Catrinas Contest. Dress up in the spirit of the Day of the Dead. Prizes will be given to the best ensemble. Participants can register onsite.

For more information, please contact the City of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department at (805) 925-0951 ext. 2260. Altar and vendor applications are available at the Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department Administrative Offices or online at www.smartsfest.com.

About Santa Maria Valley:
Whether it is the perfect pairing with a renowned Pinot Noir, a bite of tasty simplicity with Santa Maria-style barbecue or gazing at the natural wonders of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge, get together in Santa Maria Valley. You and your loved ones will discover the culture, tradition and authenticity of the Central California coast, with enough left in your pocket to do it all again tomorrow. For details on Santa Maria Valley lodging, wine tasting, travel deals, attractions, upcoming events and e-newsletter alerts, call (800) 331-3779.

Chrisie Yabu
KPS3
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