Fall is officially here. Along with the pumpkin patches and cooler temperatures, comes one of my favorite Hispanic celebrations of the year; Dia de los Muertos.
Dia de los Muertos is a holiday that is widely celebrated across Mexico and Latin America. It has also gained its popularity around the U.S. where major cities do as we say in Mexico: tiran la casa por la ventana, they go all out! From parades to festivals, these are all to honor loved ones who have left us.
Dia de los Muertos is a holiday where altars filled with portraits, candles, decorations, and key items such as cempasuchil; marigold flowers, water, and salt are put together. Every element placed in these altars has a unique significance.
Dia de los Muertos is divided into two different days: Nov. 1 and Nov. 2. Nov 1st is used to honor children, while Nov. 2 has been assigned to remember adults.
Want to learn more about this unique holiday that celebrates those who have left us in the most special and honorable way? Check out the following events happening around Huntsville and the surrounding areas. Also, read about a local store that year after year offers its customer items to create their own altars at home.
1. La Esquina Cocina - Lake Guntersville Location
La Esquina Cocina invites you to join them on November 3rd at their Lake Guntersville location for their annual Dia de los Muertos celebration. Catrina attire or costumes are welcome. Come with your family, girlfriends, or gals for an evening filled with live music by Tomas Gorrio from 5-8 p.m., a colorful ofrenda or altar, delicious food, and drinks. The event will be from 5-10 p.m. Guests are welcome to bring a photo of passed loved ones to place at the altar.
Event Details
La Esquina Cocina - 2491 Paddle Wheel Dr Suite 1A, Guntersville, AL
November 3rd
5-10 p.m
Food Specials for the Night:
- Pozole Rojo
- Esquite
- Queso Fundido with made-in-house chorizo served with homemade tortillas de maiz(corn) or totopos.
Drink Specials
- Potion Margarita
- El Vampiro
- Bruja Mule
2. Hops and Guac
Hops and Guac is also returning with a Day of the Dead celebration this year! The event will take place on Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. -2 a.m. Come dressed in the part and enjoy the Dia de los Muertos party! Click here for more details.
Event Details
Hops and Guac - 2620 Clinton Ave W Suite B, Huntsville, AL
October 31st
10 a.m. -2 a.m
3. El Patrón Supermarket
This is not your usual Hispanic store. El Patron has been in the area for many years. It is known as one of the biggest supermarkets where you can find authentic food, produce, and household items from countries like Mexico and Guatemala. With the coming of Dia de los Muertos, EL Patron offers its guests limited-time items for altars. Go check them out if you would like to create your own at home. From sugar skulls and candles to cempasuchil (marigold flowers), you can find everything you need for an altar at El Patron.
Store Details:
El Patron Supermarket - 4008 Holmes Ave. NW, Huntsville, AL
Hours: 8-9 p.m.
Monday-Sunday
4. City of Decatur
The city of Decatur is returning this year with another Day of the Dead celebration! If you attended last year, get ready for more this time. Head over to downtown Decatur to 2nd Avenue for an authentic experience filled with vibrant colors, music, and much more. This is a free admission event! Pan de muerto (sweet bread ) and champurrado (hot chocolate-based drink) will be given to the first 500 people who attend.
Event Details:
City of Decatur - Downtown - 2nd Avenue
November 2nd
5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
We invite you to attend any of these events to learn more about this special holiday or create your own altar at home! Nos vemos!