Dia De Los Muertos

MANA de Imperial Valley and the Consulado de México in Calexico Celebrate

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS: THE MEANING OF THE ALTAR

An Evening of Tradition, Creativity, and Remembrance

Calexico, CA — MANA de Imperial Valley, in collaboration with the Consulado de México in

Calexico, hosted a special cultural evening titled “Día de los Muertos: The Meaning of the Altar – An Evening of Tradition, Creativity, and Remembrance” on Wednesday, October 29, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Women’s Improvement Club in Calexico.

This vibrant workshop brought the community together to celebrate and learn about the rich

traditions of Día de los Muertos, exploring the deep symbolism behind altar-making and the

heartfelt customs that honor loved ones who have passed.

Participants enjoyed a series of engaging and hands-on cultural activities, including:

• Altar-Making Presentation: An exploration of the meaning and symbolism behind each

element of a traditional altar.

• Catrina Face Painting: Embracing the elegance and artistry of La Catrina.

• Flower Crown Making: A creative opportunity to design beautiful, traditional floral

headpieces.

Guests were encouraged to dress in the spirit of La Catrina, adding to the festive and colorful ambiance of the evening.

The event welcomed individuals of all ages, with 50 attendees, creating an intimate environment for cultural exchange and learning. MANA de Imperial Valley President, Lupita Castro shared “This evening honors the heart and history of our community—two nations united in celebrating the traditions rooted in our shared heritage. Día de los Muertos invites us to remember our loved ones, to embrace the stories and roots that shaped us, and to carry their legacy forward with pride. Through our collaboration with the Consulado de México, we continue to preserve and uplift these cultural bonds that connect us across generations and across borders.”

MANA de Imperial Valley continues to promote cultural awareness, leadership, and community engagement through meaningful collaborations such as this, preserving traditions that connect generations. As part of a national organization, MANA de Imperial Valley works to create opportunities for personal growth, civic engagement, and cultural enrichment, fostering a strong network of local leaders committed to building a more equitable and thriving community.