For many, early November is the time when families honor and spiritually reunite with their deceased loved ones in Día de los Muertos events.
Rooted in Mexico, this tradition has endured through time and transcended borders, as communities the world over continue to celebrate it. Laredo is no exception.
The Pan American Courts Arts Complex and collaborators invite the community to the 12th Annual Catrina Festival on Nov. 7, which begins with a Memorial Walk that convenes at Vega’s Interiores at 4002 San Bernardo. The processional begins at 6:00 p.m., led by Mariachi Mezcal de Tejas and the dancers of the Gabriela Mendoza García Folklórico.
The 10-block processional will end at the Pan American Courts Arts Complex. Participants are encouraged to carry a photograph of their deceased loved one, a recuerdo, or even a small altar. It is suggested that participants use copies of photographs rather than originals. According to Mendoza García, community participants can also pull their altars and offerings on wagons. Walk participants are urged to register in advance by calling (956) 645-2512.
The walk concludes with placing photographs and other mementos at a communal altar.
An ofrenda-making workshop will take place on Thursday, November 5 at the Pan American Courts Arts Complex for those who wish to learn how to prepare for the festival and Memorial Walk.
Among the dances to be performed by the Mendoza García Ballet Folklórico are those from the Huastecan tradition of Xantalo, a celebratory dance of ancestral offerings and communal renewal.
Other events include a contest for the best dressed Catrin and Catrina.
Laredo artist María Hinojosa will host crafts enthusiasts in a crown-making workshop. A small fee is required for this event; however, all materials will be provided.
Eats and treats will be available at Catrina Festival from Frontera Beer Garden vendors Katsumi, Laredo Lemonade Co., Gorilla Smoke & Grill, and El Puesto.
The monthly Chula Market, a vintage pop-up, will be in session with vendors offering a variety of items, including Día de los Muertos-inspired merchandise. There is an open call for creatives to exhibit Día de Los Muertos artwork at the event.
Sandra Rocha Taylor, director of the Pan Am Arts Complex, extends a warm welcome to the community to join in the Día de Los Muertos commemoration. For more information on the Catrina Festival, follow the Pan American Courts on Instagram @panamericancrts.
(Marian Márquez is a borderland writer, educator, scholar, and dancer born and raised in Laredo. She holds a B.A. in English from TAMIU and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Children’s Literature at Hollins University. She has interned for the non-profit organization Writer’s League of Texas and is an active member of the Children’s Literature Association and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She has published a co-authored article in the Journal of Latinos and Education, and is the award recipient of the Shirley Henn Award for Critical Writing. Follow her on Substack @crushonthevalet.)
