The Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce invites the public to participate in its second annual Dia De Los Muertos Festival SCV at Eternal Valley Memorial Park on Nov. 7 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Dia De Los Muertos is observed throughout Mexico. The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for the remembrance of those who have died. Families celebrate the tradition and culture of this special holiday.

We invite persons young and old to join us in this celebration. We will spend an eventful day relaxing and watching the evening stars appear as the cemetery comes to life with joyful celebrations. Opening ceremony includes dazantes, color guard, high profile dignitaries and selected officials.

There will be activities and performances for every member of your family – from children’s activities, story time, a community altar, an Arts Galleries, food, and a Mercado to go shopping, Mariachi, Music and entertainment … not to mention our SCV Catrin & Catrin Pageant.

We strongly encourage you to come to come in your Dia de Los Muertos attire and impress us in your finest Calaca apparel.

The History of Dia de los Muertos

The origin of the celebration of Dia de los Muertos in Mexico dates back to the time of the indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica, such as the Aztec, Maya, Purépecha, Nahua, and Totonac. In the pre-Hispanic era, it was common to keep skulls and display them during the rituals to symbolize death and rebirth. Death was viewed as a transition between life on earth and a new life in the hereafter surrounded by the Gods.

During the conquest of Mexico by Spain, the efforts to convert indigenous peoples to Catholicism moved the ritual and belief to coincide with Catholic holidays of All Saints Day and All Souls Day. As the friars introduced religion, art and pictures, these became part of the indigenous rituals and were merged with ancient rites and beliefs. The result was a merger of beliefs and tradition that became today’s celebration of the dead.

Dia de los Muertos in Mexico is a colorful and festive event that is unique to other cultures. Flowers, gifts, fruits, candles and music are offered to honor the memory of loved ones. The Dia de los Muertos feast and celebration as we know it today was born of the fusion of two cultures.