News Release

César E. Chávez National Monument Honors Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Holiday With Altars And a Free Event On November 2nd

A set of 5 framed photographs next to framed sheets of text sit on a black table covered with a white lace tablecloth. Simliar photos are on the wall. Also on the table are 3 colorful mexican-style day of the dead skulls, 5 candles in tall glass holders.
Dia de los Muertos altar honoring the five martyrs of the farmworker movement.

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News Release Date: October 23, 2024

Contact: Erin Gates, (661)632-6501

In honor of the Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) holiday, César E. Chávez National Monument will display altars throughout the Visitor Center through mid November and will host a special event on November 2nd. 

Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a vibrant holiday celebrated in Mexico and many other countries in Latin America that honors our loved ones who have passed away. Family and friends come together to remember them, believing that death is just a part of life. During this special time, people think that the spirits of those who have died return to Earth for happy reunions, reminding us that they are still a part of our lives and our community. 

Families create ofrendas, or altars, at home and in public places to honor their loved ones. César E. Chávez National Monument has participated in this special tradition since 1993, when an altar was established in memory of César Chávez after his passing. Since then, community members have continued to set up altars here, paying tribute to their loved ones who have passed away. We warmly encourage visitors to bring their own mementos to contribute to our community altar, creating a beautiful space of remembrance. Alters will stay up until November 17. 
 
In honor of the holiday, César E. Chávez National Monument will host a free community event on November 2nd. This special event will feature live entertainment including local mariachi music and ballet folklorico dancers, face painting, and a special tour of the Visitor Center highlighting the altars. The event will conclude with a special screening of the movie “Coco” in the Visitor Center theater.

Schedule of events on Saturday, November 2nd, 1 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. 

  • 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM: Experience the vibrant music of Mariachi Tenampa 
  • 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Watch the talented dancers of Ballet Folklorico Mi Cultura from Arvin High School 
  • 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Special tour of the altars inside the Visitor Center 
  • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Special screening of the movie Coco! 



Last updated: October 28, 2024

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