Celebrating Día de los Muertos in Portland

From community ofrendas to musical performances, there are plenty Day of the Dead festivities to check out

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The City of Portland’s official altar, or “ofrenda” in Spanish.

Photo via City of Portland

Next week, Día de los Muertos, or “Day of the Dead,” celebrations will come to life across Portland. The Mexican tradition brings together family and friends who pay their respects to loved ones who have died.

Whether you’re looking to learn more about the holiday or join the inclusive festivities, here are a few events to check out.

Bring the kids to Cedar Mill Library (Tues., Nov. 1, from 4-6 p.m.) for an evening of arts and crafts — including sugar skull decorating .

Portland Mercado will host performances from Tequila Highway and other musicians, henna and face painting, as well as a screening of Pixar’s “Coco.” There will also be an altar (called an ofrenda) where members of the community can leave photos, marigolds , and other items.

On Fri., Nov. 4, the Old Town Community Association is partnering with Huehca Omeyocan to conduct a ceremony and historic workshop from 5-9 p.m.

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Ben grew up in the Rogue Valley, attended the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism, and has written for publications like 1859 Magazine and Portland Monthly. He enjoys hiking the PNW, football and futbol, wildlife photography, any manner of libation exploration, and of course writing for PDXtoday.