Come visit the beautiful Altar de Día de Muertos that Mexicans in Gainesville has created in LACC dedicated to all victims of COVID-19. Only UF affiliates can enter Smathers Library currently so bring your Gator 1 Card and face covering if you visit us.
Mexicans in Gainesville wrote the following description:
“Altar del Día de Muertos/Day of the Dead Altar, November 2nd:
“The Day of the Dead festival is celebrated on All Saints Day and All Souls Day in Mexico and other Latin American countries. This celebration represents a mixture of Christian and Pre-Hispanic traditions and beliefs. Considered one of the most important holidays of the year, this cherished tradition brings together the whole family, both living and dead, to celebrate life.
“To mark the day, people construct and decorate ‘ofrendas’, or home altars, to honor loved ones who have died. In rural areas of Mexico, tombs and graveyards are cleaned and freshly painted and families celebrate in the cemetery all night, picnicking, singing, laughing and remembering their loved ones. In urban areas, the celebration of Day of the Death has less religious connotation and the focus is more artistic and intellectual.
“Mexicans in Gainesville, 2020”