SOLEDAD — City of Soledad hosted its third annual Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration on Nov. 1, welcoming more than 500 attendees to the Soledad Community Center for an evening of culture, community and meaningful remembrance.
The family-friendly event honored the traditions of Día de los Muertos through music, dance and interactive activities. Highlights included a beautiful performance by the Bolero Brothers String Duo, captivating dances by the Soledad Parks and Recreation Folklórico Group, the community-favorite Catrina Contest and family activities, such as Lotería and face painting.
The celebration also featured Día de los Muertos-themed artwork that added depth and creativity to the Saturday event.
Students from Soledad High School’s ceramics class, taught by Ms. Jimenez, displayed intricately decorated ceramic calaveras. Children ages 6-12 from the Community Center’s Clay Charms class exhibited colorful alebrijes — imaginative creatures often believed to serve as spiritual guides in the afterlife — reflecting the creativity of Soledad’s youth while honoring the holiday’s rich traditions.
The evening’s grand altar, the centerpiece of the celebration, captivated attendees with its authenticity and cultural significance. Decorated with carefully arranged ofrendas honoring loved ones who have passed, the display moved many residents to tears, evoking memories and personal reflections.
Local leaders, including Mayor Anna Velazquez, Mayor Pro Tem Fernando Cabrera, Councilmember Evarista Banuelos and City Manager Megan Hunter joined residents in celebrating this cherished tradition.
“Our Community Center came alive as a colorful Mexican marketplace celebrating Día de los Muertos,” Velazquez said. “The performances and ofrendas were so poignant — they brought back the traditions and memories that connect our families to Mexico. It was truly a moving tribute to our heritage and to those who live on in our hearts.”
Parks and Recreation Director Jessica Potts added, “This year’s Día de los Muertos celebration captured everything that makes Soledad special: family, culture and community. The performances were moving, the art displays were meaningful, and the turnout showed just how much our residents value coming together to honor tradition.”
With record attendance and enthusiastic participation, the event underscored Soledad’s strong sense of community and cultural pride.
