Dead of the Dead Cultural Festival at Inglewood Park Cemetery

Ricky Richardson |

Inglewood, CA. – Usually, the Dead of the Dead, Dia De Los Muertos celebrations is held the first couple of days on November 1st and 2nd, 2024.

The Annual Dia De Los Muertos Cultural Festival returned to the Inglewood Park Cemetery on Sunday, October 27, 2024.

The grounds were decorated with ofrendas, colorful papel picado banners, marigold flowers, and Calaveras. The grounds also featured a Catrina Garden, Butterfly wings, Remembrance Trees, and a Butterfly Pavilion.

This was my first time being in attendance for this colorful and joyful celebration of Dia De Los Muertos Cultural Festival. This event is in its 11th year.

The program got underway with Tlecoatl- Danza Azteca, a traditional dance performance. The Blessing Ceremony was led by Father Frank Tinajera.

Welcome remarks were made by Rene Negrete, Sr. Vice President, Inglewood Park Cemetery. Additional remarks came from Brendt Stallings, Chief Executive Officer & Chief Investment Officer, Inglewood Park Cemetery, Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts, Jr., and Councilmember Alex Padilla, Todd Beckley, President, Inglewood Cemetery Mortuary, and Monica Bracho, Vice President, Inglewood Park Cemetery.

The Dia De Los Muertos Cultural Festival featured community alters, arts & crafts, face paintings, and a variety of artisan Mercado.

Guests were entertained with live entertainment, incredible performances by Mariachi Los Troyanos de USC, and an awesome headlining set by Emilio Ortega.

PU'UWAI Danza thrilled attendees with beautiful, traditional, cultural dances from various regions of Mexico to the delight of their parents and guests.

La Muerte Maria, Ruler and Queen of the Land of Remembrance were in attendance for the celebration.

According to Latin Ballet.com, Dia De Los Muertos Study Guide, "Dia De Los Muertos, Day of the Dead, is a celebration of one of the most traditional Mexican festivities. This Aztec ritual and commemoration started at least 3,000 years ago. It is a festive interaction that embraces the cycle of life. Mesoamerican Natives, African Americans and Spanish blend their traditions during the celebration."

I was fortunate to meet two families who were who were invited to be involved in the Dia De Los Muertos Cultural Festival. I was able to learn about their immediate and extended families. Keisha Cooley and LaShea Elkouby, are sisters who honored their mother as well as their extended family members who transitioned for a Maternal Family Alter. Terri Anderson and Susan Anderson displayed The Legacy Alter in honor of their extended family who transitioned.