The Village of Homewood is proudly hosting its first Day of the Dead Fest (Dia de Los Muertos) ! This is the first time Homewood is hosting the fest to share the rich cultural traditions of the celebration.

Día de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a holiday that celebrates death as a natural part of the human experience. While it sounds like a very somber day, it's also a time of celebration, with many bright and colorful traditions to honor our friends and family who have passed on.

This all stems from the ancient indigenous peoples of Mexico (Purepecha, Nahua, Totonac and Otomí) who believed that the souls of the dead return each year to visit with their living relatives - to eat, drink and be merry. Just like they did when they were living. 

One of the most significant traditions during the Day of the Dead is the creation of an altar to honor the souls of the dead. The Village of Homewood has partnered with local resident, Gloria Contreras of XicantL Productions, who has handmade a community-inclusive ofrenda - an altar for everyone from the community to put up pictures of their loved ones who have passed on. Fest participants are asked to bring a 5x7 photo COPY of a loved one that has passed to place on the ofrenda (alter) as they arrive.

And don’t miss the contest for best Catrinas and Catrin (historic skeletal characters) – Day of the Dead costumes are encouraged! Ms. Contreras and other judges will determine the best Catrina, a female skeleton with a glamorous hat, or a Catrin, the male version. 

The event will take place on Martin Avenue, Ridge Road to Chestnut Road, parking available at Village Hall. The footprint will be decorated with traditional Day of the Dead symbols: skeletons, skulls, masks, and flowers. The event will offer traditional Mexican food and music. Local Mexican restaurants will sell Mexican foods and drinks.  The not-for-profit Performing Fine Arts Council will host a craft table to decorate sugar skull masks and traditional “Dia de los Muertos” face painting.  

Papel picado (colorful flags) and Arbol de la vida (Tree of Life) will also be on display during the celebration along with a performance by Chinelos dancers, Comparsa Santa Cruz Chicago.

The event footprint will have a gallery area, so all can view the beautiful handmade, pieces of art by Ms. Contreras. She will act as the event docent explaining to guests each piece and its meaning. Fest participants are encouraged to dress in traditional “Day of the Dead” attire. At the end of the evening, all will gather to watch the Pixar movie “Coco”...Don't forget your chair or blanket.