The Old Town Prepares to Celebrate Dia de Los Muertos

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — For some people of Mexican descent, Dia de los Muertos is a time to send their deceased loved ones back to the land of the living.

Old Town goes above and beyond for New Mexicans who want to honor their loved ones.

“I love the idea that we remember everyone’s family members who have passed away,” said Camie Condon, an Albuquerque resident.

With marigolds to guide them and offerings to nourish them, our deceased loved ones return to visit on Día de los Muertos.

In the Old Town, paintings are placed and rentals are prepared for a special visit.

“We turned the Old Town square into Plaza de los Recuerdos. Where community members can come and give their loved ones the kind of gatherings they want to remember,” said Sarah Mancini, committee chair of the Historic Old Town Association.

On Friday and Saturday, community members can visit various businesses on the square and local businesses in Old Town.

“Walking around the Old Town, you can talk to people about loved ones they have lost. It’s touching, but also a way to connect with those who are still with us and share those memories and the impact that person had on their lives,” Mancini said.

People can get their face painted, learn how to make papel picado, and take a special tour of the historic district.

“Everyone receives a small kit, a kind of starter ofrenda. We will take you on a 75-minute tour, telling you all about the meaning, traditions, culture of Day of the Dead,” said Misty Lundy, manager of ABQ Tours.

John Simpson and his family came here from Pennsylvania. They look forward to learning about the culture during the Katrina parade and Walk of Remembrance.

“We feel like Día de los Muertos is becoming more and more popular in pop culture, but we wanted her to see the real Día de los Muertos and experience it the right way and in the right place,” said Simpson.

After much research, the Simpsons decided that Old Town was the perfect location.

“I’ll tell you my daughter’s first impression: We were just walking around the square and she said, ‘This is the best trip we’ve ever taken,'” Simpson said.

For a full schedule of Saturday events in the Old Town, follow the link. Click here.