Dia de los Muertos

[ The traditional Dia de los Muertos observances that take place in late October and early November are a time of great festivity, no less so for those of us here in Los Angeles. Here’s a small sampling of just some of the upcoming observances and celebrations planned for L.A. ]

Hollywood Forever Cemetery - Sat., Oct 29th, 4 - 11 pm. One of the largest and grandest celebrations you'll see in Los Angeles. Thousands come to view the alters, art, and costumed people in Hollywood's final resting place for movie stars, musicians, and other Californian notables. You'll never forget walking through this moonlit cemetery and the beauty of the alters in tribute to the dead. Bring a camera and something warm to wear. Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, LosAngeles, CA 90038-1864. For more information, visit the official website.

La Placita Catholic Church - Wed., Nov 2nd, Alter Blessing 6:30 to 7 pm. An altar installation by artist Vibiana Aparicio-Chamberlin that memorializes the dead of the Iraq War and the murdered women of Juarez. Come early and stroll the shops at Olvera Street - pick up some sugar skulls - then pay your respects to the war dead at La Placita Church (Our Lady Queen of Angels) Catholic Church, Olvera Street, Los Angeles, CA.

Street Parade and Candle light march - Five Points, East L.A. - Wed., Nov 2nd. Community artists in L.A. will celebrate Self Help Graphics and Art and what it's meant to all of us. This is an invitation to all interested artists and community members to again celebrate Dia de los Muertos as an artist-led event. This year we will celebrate Day of the Dead with a street parade. The event begins at 7:00pm. Gather for a candle light march @ Five Points East L.A. Calavera make up & attire encouraged. For more info, contact Diane Gamboa. selfhelpartists@yahoo.com

Day of the Dead Fashion Show & Exhibit - Tropico de Nopal Gallery on Nov 5th. Join artists Cindy Bravo, Victoria Delgadillo, Consuelo Flores, Rigo Maldonado and community members for a unique vision in remembering our dead. Tropico de NopalGallery, 1665 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA. For more info, visit the gallery's website at: www.tropicodenopal.com