SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane residents have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Dia de los Muertos celebrations this weekend. Two local events aim to educate the public about Hispanic culture and traditions.
One event will be held at Nuestras Raices Community Center, while another will take place at No-Li Brewhouse. These celebrations will feature ofrendas, which are offerings designed to invite the spirits of loved ones back for a visit.
The ofrendas include monarch butterflies symbolizing migration and marigolds whose strong fragrance and bright colors guide spirits home. Salt is also present for the purification of souls as they travel back to their families.
On Saturday, a family celebration will occur from noon to 4:00 p.m. at 1214 E Sprague, featuring food, cultural dances and music. Later that evening, No-Li Brewhouse will host an adult-only celebration from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. with similar activities.
Jennifer Vigil from Nuestras Raices shared her thoughts on the event’s purpose. “You know sometimes people think it’s creepy or it’s a cult and it’s not that at all. It’s really a very beautiful tradition and it’s basically just showing love to the family members and the pets that have gone before us,” said Vigil.
Organizers hope these events will help correct any misconceptions and bring participants closer to their loved ones.
