By KJ Burns, Managing-Editor
Newman’s Hispanic American Leadership Organization’s annual Día de los Muertos celebration on Wednesday is intended to bring students and community members together to honor loved ones who have died and to celebrate Hispanic culture.
The event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. in Fugate Gymnasium. Admission is free for students, and the event will include traditional Mexican food, lotería (a bingo-style game), Ballet Folklórico, a live mariachi performance, face painting and giveaways.
“This celebration honors our ancestors and loved ones who have passed away while recognizing the traditions and cultural heritage that connect us,” said Grecia Nunez, HALO president.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a traditional celebration honoring deceased loved ones. This year marks the third time HALO has put on the event at Newman.
Giveaways will include a Kendra Scott set, a Scheels gift basket, Chick-fil-A and Texas Roadhouse baskets, a date-night gift basket and cleaning appliances, Nunez said.
HALO began preparing for the celebration earlier this month with Sabores y Flores on Oct. 6. During that event, participants made marigolds for the Día de los Muertos altar, which is located in the Dugan Library atrium. Students can contribute by bringing pictures of loved ones who have passed, including pets, to honor their memories.
The Art Club will also participate in next week's celebration by providing face painting and coloring pages for children.
Nunez said the celebration will give students an opportunity to meet new people, learn about Hispanic culture and experience Día de los Muertos traditions in a welcoming environment.
Although the annual celebration is HALO’s biggest event of the year, the organization has additional activities planned this month.
On Oct. 29, HALO will collaborate with the Asian Student Association and Campus Ministry for a pickleball event at Chicken N Pickle. The event is free and open to all students.
PHOTO: Jacob Brown, Editor-in-Chief
