Celebrating Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) in Nebraska

Decorating with skeletons might be a slightly creepy way to celebrate a fall holiday. Unless of course, you are celebrating “Day of the Dead” (“Dia de los Muertos”). Until I studied Mexico with my kids several years ago, I was unfamiliar with this holiday. For this ethnic group, this holiday corresponds with the Catholic holiday of “All Souls” Day celebrated on November 1st. Not a day set aside for being spooky, instead people gather together to remember the lives of those relatives that have gone before.

In researching this topic, I found the best website. Art is Fun explains the history and traditions associated with Dia de los Muertos, plus she includes recipes and art projects. One of the museums that I am about to highlight is featuring an art session with one activity that is featured on her site: papel picado. If you are unable to attend any of the events but would still like to have the multicultural experience, you will definitely want to visit her site first for ideas.

Unfortunately I missed one of the largest Dia de los Muertos events that happened last Saturday and Sunday in Grand Island. If you happened to attend the event, please comment below and tell about your experiences. Live in that area? Watch for the announcement of this annual event next fall, either the week-end before or during the holiday.

As for upcoming events, several are available in the Nebraska metro areas. Since one event is happening in Omaha today, that is a good place to start.

Omaha

St. Cecilia’s Cathedral has ongoing exhibits and events happening for several weeks. As a part of their Sunderland Gallery, you can experience the religious aspects of this holiday. This cathedral is found at 701 North 40th Street.

While these events are not mentioned on their website, El Museo Latino is in fact celebrating “Dia de los Muertos” twice this week. On Wednesday 10/28 at noon, you can attend a gallery talk telling all about the history and traditions of this holiday. This event is free with admission. Starting at noon on 10/31, you can learn how to make papel picado. This intricate paper cutting craft will cost $6 per participant to cover supplies. They also have an annual display explaining the traditions involved in this holiday.

Now located at 3010 “R” Street in Omaha, the Omaha Intercultural Center is the place to go for an all-day celebration on Friday October 30th. From 10:30 to 7:00, they will featuring all kinds of activities. This quote of the specific details was taken directly from their website.

In honor and memory of our deceased loved ones we will celebrate with a beautiful altar display, live music, dancing, delicious food, kids activities and crafts!

Lincoln

Lux Center for the Arts is the new host of Lincoln’s annual celebration. According to the website, this is what will be happening on Sunday November 1st from 1 to 4.

Formerly put on by the Sheldon Museum of Art, this FREE celebration will feature food, live music, an ofrenda, tissue paper flowers (cempazúchitl), clay pinch pots, cut paper (papel picado), sugar skull activities, and more. Hope to see you there!

Wanting to learn even more about “Dia de los Muertos?” A few years ago, Nebraska Stories featured this holiday in one of their excerpts. This helps to visualize exactly how this Latin holiday is celebrated.