Organized by Centro Cultural de Mexico, the 9th annual Noche de Altares was an event carried out by volunteers on November 5th for the celebration of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, an ancient tradition of Mexico. No one could miss the street lined with rows of altars, craft vendors, art and face painting booths, as well as the wafting smell of Mexican food. Anyone could easily feel the exhilaration of Mexican festivities and live music at the event from even across the intersection between Ross and Broadway.
Walking down the street, pedestrians are surrounded by endless lines of more than 75 altars which are built by families, students, artists, activists, and businesses to remember a deceased loved one, soldiers who died in war, or even to raise awareness of social or health issues. With so many articulately crafted altars, people can feel the sense of Mexican culture.
Patty Castro, a first timer at the festival, was “so impressed with the creativity of the altars and whole festival that [she] couldn’t decide what her favorite part of the festival was” and “felt that at the festival there was a feeling that brought her closer to her Mexican heritage”.
With much to offer such as live music and entertainment as well as local artists selling their crafts, face painting, and food from local restaurants, people of all ages are sure to enjoy this festival. Attendees can snack on Mexican food such as esquites and elotes as well as tacos, quesadillas, and tacquitos. Some of the food is sold by local restaurants and others are sold by nearby schools such as Garden Grove High School. Younger children can also participate in free, art craft booths such as coloring pictures of sugar skulls.
“The celebration brings the community together through art and culture and makes me feel pride for my Hispanic roots”, said Vicki Ballon who had attended the annual event multiple times.
With the addition of free admission, no one should miss out on this chance to explore and become exposed to Mexican culture.
“I think free admission is a factor to why there is always a huge show up at this event”, said Olivia Hinkens who decided to attend Noche de Altares after being recommended by her Spanish teacher friend. With the expected number attendees over 30,000, it is believable to think that free admission is an efficient way of attracting people to the event.
Noche de Altares starts from 1 pm to 10 pm so it is suited to all ages. Held in the Corazon of downtown Santa Ana on 4th Street, anyone can go and join the celebration.
