El Dia de los Muertos is a public holiday in Mexico and is a very popular celebration in Arizona. The Day of the Dead as it is called in English is a two day ritual that the natives of Mexico have been practicing for more than 3,000 years. Aztecs and other Latin civilization regarded death as a continuation of life, not the end.  It is traditional for families to build alters in their homes for dead ancestors.  On these alters family members would place flowers, foods, photos or paintings of those departed and lighted candles.

On the first two days of November people may wear wooden skull masks, also called calacas and dance to honor those who have past on. Many public exhibitions are also offered during this time.

On November 3, the Vision Gallery, Xico Inc. and the Calaca Center are organizing a day of building altars, creating sugar skull candies, calcas and papel picado.  There will also be a puppet show called "Funny Bunny's Day of the Dead Holiday Adventure".  The Calaca Cultural Center will present, "The History of Dia de los Muertos Exhibition"

The Burton Barr Central Library in Phoenix will host an art exhibition called"Dia de los Muertos" featuring Arizona artists.

The Desert Botanical Garden will be promoting delicious Mexican food, the garden's own alter, traditional mariachis and beautiful Mexican art.

The Day of the Dead celebration is a great way to experience the traditions of old Mexico and learn more about the history of Dia de los Muertos.