Debra Garcia y Griego, Cabinet Secretary for Department of Cultural Affairs | americansforthearts.org
The National Hispanic Cultural Center (NHCC) in Albuquerque is preparing for Día de los Muertos with a series of free, family-oriented events. The holiday, observed across Latin America at the start of November, honors deceased friends and family members.
The NHCC will begin its celebrations on Saturday, October 18 with "Noche de Familia: Noche de Cempasúchil," which features a screening of Disney*Pixar’s film "Coco." Before the film starts at 5:00 p.m., visitors can participate in interactive green screen demonstrations beginning at 4:00 p.m.
On Saturday, October 25, the Center’s 25th Anniversary Celebration will offer activities inspired by Día de los Muertos traditions. Families are invited to contribute to the community ofrenda and view displays created by local schools and organizations. Attendees can also decorate sugar skulls, make paper flowers, enjoy face-painting, and participate in other crafts.
The annual Día de Familia event is scheduled for Saturday, November 2. This event provides another opportunity to share in the community ofrenda and take part in all-ages crafts. Visitors will be able to sample Pan de Muerte and purchase food from local food trucks. The Center encourages attendees to bring a non-returnable photo or item to add to the community ofrenda.
All events are open to the public at no cost. Additional information and registration details are available on the NHCC’s website at nhccnm.org/events.
According to the Center, "The National Hispanic Cultural Center is dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and advancement of Hispanic culture, arts, and humanities. The NHCC presents mission-related events throughout the year, some produced by its history, literary, performing, and visual arts programs, and others by partnering with external organizations. Events take place at its 20-plus-acre campus, which includes a plaza, an art museum, a historically designated building, a library, and a genealogy center. The NHCC is a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs and is further supported by the National Hispanic Cultural Center Foundation."
