Crossing Cultures

Longmont’s annual Day of the Dead contains art from south of the border.

Comments (0) By Kimberly Berkey Thursday, Oct 30 2008

In Mexico, El Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is right up there with Christmas in terms of celebration. It’s a lot like The Nightmare Before Christmas, where no one is scared, gifts are given to the dead instead of the living, and candy skulls replace gingerbread men.

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Traditional thought has it that the best way to celebrate the lives of those who have gone before us is to invite them along for the festivities. And the Longmont Museum & Cultural Center knows how to throw down for one killer fiesta. For eight years, it’s been one of the largest Día de los Muertos events in northern Colo-rado. Artists from Longmont’s sister city, Ciudad Guzmán in the Mexican state of Jalisco, have collaborated with the museum to build altars for the dead. These displays promise to make today’s party the most elaborate yet. Not only has the center brought in talent from other places, but it will also feature the work of Den-ver’s favorite muertolito artist, Jerry Vigil. Erik Mason, curator of research and information at the museum, explains that local community involvement is part of what makes the LMCC celebration unique: Local dance, food, music and art all play a part in making the day a memorable one.

Stop by 400 Quail Road in Longmont from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to partake in the activities, or get there before November 9 to catch the art exhibit. Call 303-651-8374 for information.
Sat., Nov. 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 2008