Mexican tradition dates back 3,000 years

The Waukegan Park District-Cultural Arts Division and the Academia Cultural Xilotl will hold their “Second Annual Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda y Altar” art exhibit, a commemoration to loved ones on Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

The event will be from 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1, and Friday, Nov. 2, at the Dr. Lynn Schornick Theatre, 39 Jack Benny Drive, Waukegan.

This year’s exhibit will feature altars made by local community members; art pieces from Waukegan, Chicago and Minnesota artists; sugar skulls and organic jewelry, including photo prints by local community members; and an indigenous ceremonial performance.

A suggested donation to ACX of $10 for those ages 12 and older is requested, with sugar skulls available $5 each and refreshments for sale.

For details, call Jack Benny Center for the Arts at (847) 360-4740.

Dia de Muertos is a tradition that has existed in Mexico, Latin America and parts of the United States for more than 3,000 years. It was a tradition that was celebrated by the indigenous people of Mexico and Central America, and has been preserved (with some modifications) even after the arrival of Europeans to America and is now celebrated around the world.

In Mexico, people visit their loved ones in the cemetery and decorate grave sites with Cempaxúchitl or marigold flowers, candles, toys, bottles of favorite drinks and food. Families often build altars in their homes surrounded by flowers, pictures of loved ones and decorate them as they do the gravesite.

Nov. 1 and 2 are the dates when Mexico celebrates the cycle of life by recognizing, but not fearing, death.

“Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is of sociological importance because it addresses multiculturalism and helps develop a sense of diversity and respect for other cultures,” said Maria Calderon, founder and director of Academia Cultural Xilotl.

“Hence, it’s important for people to learn about this special holiday due to the fact that there is a common misconception that this celebration is a version of Halloween, since both holidays are celebrated at around the same time.”