Catrina contest participants gather at the Día de los Muertos event. (City of Soledad)

SOLEDAD — City of Soledad hosted its second annual Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration last Saturday afternoon at the Soledad Community Center.

The Nov. 2 event invited families and community members of all backgrounds to honor loved ones who have passed and to celebrate the cherished Mexican tradition through live performances, food and interactive activities.

Soledad Parks and Recreation Director Jessica Potts expressed her excitement for this year’s “heartfelt celebration” that was filled with art, music and shared stories.

“It provides a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the rich traditions of honoring loved ones,” Potts said. “This celebration not only showcases the vibrant culture, but also fosters unity and remembrance among residents.”

The event featured traditional “ofrendas” (altars) adorned with flowers, photos and mementos in tribute to those who have departed. Guests also enjoyed folkloric dance, music, arts and crafts, and other activities that created a festive, colorful space for the community to gather and share in the spirit of Día de los Muertos.

Participants in the Catrín and Catrina contest attend the Día de los Muertos Celebration at the Soledad Community Center on Nov. 2. (City of Soledad)

In addition, the Catrín and Catrina contest was a highlight, with three lucky winners walking away with Amazon gift cards worth $100, $75 and $50.

City of Soledad reflected on the success of the celebration.

“The 2024 Día de los Muertos celebration was a fantastic success,” stated the City on social media. “A huge thank you to our community for joining us and making this event so special. We also want to extend our gratitude to all of our vendors, performers and entertainers who contributed to the celebration.”

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Ryan Cronk is the managing editor for King City Rustler and Salinas Valley Tribune, a unified publication of Greenfield News, Soledad Bee and Gonzales Tribune. He covers general news for South Monterey County and the surrounding communities.

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