A 2010 Guide to Houston Day of the Dead Events

Dia de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, is a Mexican tradition in which family members honor the dead with their favorite trinkets and sweets. During this two day celebration the living pays homage to their deceased loved ones with a public display of presents, remember their ancestors and those who have passed on. Though many mistakenly believe it similar in nature to Halloween, it is actually a festive occasion. Each culture may have a little different way of celebrating this special holiday.

With such a large population of Mexican American's and other Hispanic cultures in the Houston area, there are sure to be many celebrations of the Day of the Dead, both in private homes as well as out and about in the area. Here are many of the celebrations and activities you can look forward to:

Celebrate Dia de los Meurtos on Sunday Oct. 25 from 11am-6pm at Traders Village, the largest, most visited open-air market on the Texas Gulf Coast, located at 7979 N. Eldridge Parkway, Houston, 77041. This family friendly celebration will include live music, arts and crafts, food, and children's activities. Find authentic music performed live from the Pepsi Concert Stage, Ballet Folkloric, Altars and Art by Houston-based Latino Artists, Dancing, Ethnic Foods and Beverages, Hispanic merchandise vendors and more.

It is free to attend, but parking is $3.00.

In the Houston "Heights" area the Brooke Smith Heights Art Coalition and Suzanne Anderson Properties presents: Day of The Dead - Dia De Los Muertos on Nov 1st from 3:00 - 8:00 PM in Monte Beach Park, 915 Northwood St. Houston, TX. At this honoring of ancestors there will be live music and entertainment, children's activities, food, poetry and a drum circle.

October 31 and November 1, Houston's MECA (Multicultural Education and Counseling through the Arts) will be hosting its annual Dia de los Muertos: Honoring our Past and Celebrating Our Future. The festivities include arts, crafts, a Calavera Fashion Show, music, dance, and food samplings from the Americas. A theatrical performance of a mock death and reaffirmation of life is also scheduled. Find this event at 1900 Kane St. Houston, TX 77077.

Houston's Lawndale Art Center located at 4912 Main St. Houston 77002 is hosting its 22nd annual Dia de los Muertos with a celebration including the arts, music, culture and the practices of Mexico. Look for these special activities:

Art Exhibit (Oct. 19-Nov. 7)

Gala/Silent Auction (Oct. 23) and;

Musical Ofrenda, Papel Pacado Workshop, Sugar Skull Workshop, and the Family Day Fiesta (November 7).

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is host to a temporary exhibit in honor of El Dia de los Muertos. There is no additional cost for this exhibit, simply purchase your exhibit hall ticket ($10.00/adults).

Many Harris County Public Libraries are offering programs including teen events in celebration of Dia de los Muertos during Hispanic Heritage Month. All events from storytime and teens to seniors are free. Be sure to check the schedule at a Harris County Library near you.

For more information on celebrating the Day of the Dead with your family visit:

Celebrating the "Day of the Dead" with "Pan De Los Muertos" The bread of the Day of the Dead

Easy and Fun Day of the Dead Crafts for Children

Free Printable "Day of the Dead" Crafts, Lessons and Activities

Just a short drive away from Houston you can, Taking a Day of the Dead Walk Down Austin's 6th Street: Lions and Tigers and Zombies? Oh, My!

Sources:

http://www.tradersvillage.com/

http://www.houstonpress.com/events/preparing-for-the-dead-1997854/

http://meca-houston.org/dotd/index.html

http://www.hmns.org/