Día de los Muertos is a day of celebration of life, memory and cultural traditions. And while the official observance is on Saturday, Nov. 2, faculty and staff with the Del Mar College Libraries and the Languages Lab and Spanish Language Program with the Department of Communications, Languages and Reading are collaborating to present a morning program and community ofrenda or altar on Thursday, Oct. 30, to celebrate loved ones who have passed on.
Including a book display, storytelling and educational presentations highlighting the history and significance of Día de los Muertos, this interactive event runs from 10 a.m. to noon in Room 218 of White Library on the college’s Heritage Campus. Guest expert Dr. Carey Rote, Professor of History at Texas A&M University‑Corpus Christi, will present “Día de los Muertos traditions in Oaxaca” and explore the region’s rich artistic and cultural expressions. The program also features other speakers who will share their own perspectives and stories.
Organizers will serve light refreshments, including pan de muerto and Mexican hot chocolate. Additionally, representatives from the college’s Languages Program, Mexican American Studies Program and the Del Mar College Chapter of the Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education (TACHE) will have information tables present, giving attendees the opportunity to engage directly with faculty and staff to learn more about what they offer.
This event is free and open to the public, and participants are invited to bring a photo or small symbolic item to contribute to the community altar.
• Thursday, Oct. 30, 10 a.m. to noon, Día de los Muertos Celebratory Program.
• Location: Room 218, White Library, Del Mar College Heritage Campus, 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404), get online directions and campus map.
• Cost: free.
• Questions? Contact DMC Spanish Professor Javier Morin at 361-698-1582 or jmorin@delmar.edu.