LONGVIEW, Texas (EAST TEXAS NEWS) – A new tradition is taking shape in Longview with the first-ever Day of the Dead festival and parade!
The Day of the Dead is a celebration that originated in Mexico and typically runs from November 1 through November 2. This observance brings families and friends together to honor and remember those who have died through a joyful celebration, rather than mourning. Traditions include honoring the departed with skull imagery and Aztec marigold flowers, known as cempasúchil, and building home altars, called ofrendas, where offerings such as photos of loved ones, candles, beverages, food, and sugar skulls are left for the deceased.
The Day of the Dead festival will begin at Heritage Plaza in Longview on October 29, starting at 4:00 p.m. There will be food, artists, music, activities for kids, a Catrinas contest at 5:00 p.m., a parade at 6:00 p.m., and an ofrenda contest at 8:00 p.m. The event is completely free to the public! To participate in the parade, you can get more information here.
There are multiple ways to get involved to help bring this event to life as well! Vendors can click here to register. New sponsors are welcome and can click here for more information. To volunteer and support this new event, you can get more information here.
Stay up to date with this event by following its Facebook page.
