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Top Dia De Los Muertos Events In Denver

No doubt you've seen the vivid imagery that pops up every October. Sugar skulls, marigolds and skeletons are common this time of year. Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday that has made its way north and is widely celebrated throughout the country and all over the world. The day is a gathering that focuses on remembrance for family and friends that have passed away. It is a lively and colorful way to celebrate the lives of people that will live on in the hearts and minds of their friends and family members. If you are looking for a few places to learn more about this holiday or to celebrate it yourself, here are some great Dia de los Muertos events happening in Denver.

Longmont Museum and Cultural Center
400 Quail Road
Longmont CO 80501
(303) 651-8374
www.ci.longmont.co.us

Date: Now through November 4, 2012

One of the larger Dia de los Muertos celebrations in Colorado happens just outside of Denver in Longmont. The Longmont Museum annually attracts more than 6,000 people to its Day of the Dead exhibit, celebrating diversity and culture in the state. One of the important pieces of the celebration is the community altars which people from all over the community come together to create. The monuments honor loved ones. Many of the altars have sugar skulls and skeletons while others include items made of paper mache or ceramics. Regardless of their makeup, these altars are always beautiful. Throughout the month of October, the museum will be hosting workshops for kids, dance lessons, family celebrations and other great activities in combination with the exhibit.

Denver Botanic Gardens
1007 York St.
Denver, CO 80206
(720) 865-3500
www.botanicgardens.org

Date: October 27, 2012 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Flowers and plants play a large part in the celebration of Dia de los Muertos and there is no better place to see beautiful flowers and plants than at the Denver Botanic Gardens. The gardens are always a wonderful place to celebrate important events and occasions, and this is no exception. Bring the whole family down to enjoy live entertainment, local artists, dancers and many different craft areas. There will be face painting and free photo booths to help make more memories and keepsakes from the special day.

Related: Top Art Galleries in Denver

Studio 12 Gallery
209 Kalamath St., Unit 12
Denver, CO 80223
(303) 629-8744
www.studio12gallery.com

Dates: Now through November 9, 2012

The artistry that goes into each and every altar for a Dia de los Muertos celebration is truly stunning. Here is your chance to see some spectacular Dia de los Muertos artwork from invited artists as well as selected pieces from an open call. The art show will be a true celebration of the visual imagery and icons that are part of day. All of the pieces have been chosen by Carlos Fresquez, a renowned artist and professor at Metropolitan State College of Denver.

Chicano Humanities and Arts Council Gallery
772 Santa Fe Drive
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 571-0440
www.chacweb.org

Dates: Now through November 3, 2012

If you are looking for another great place to see beautiful Dia de los Muertos artwork, then look no further than the Chicano Humanities and Arts Council. This art show will be featuring new works of all mediums. Check out fabulous paintings, sculptures, carvings, fabric, jewelry and so much more. There will also be many small altars to see and you can even purchase a piece there if you find something you simply must have. Be sure to check out the opening-night party on October 19. There will be traditional Mexican food and drinks, Aztec dancers and face painting, all to celebrate Dia de los Muertos.

Related: Top Mexican Food in Denver

Museo de las Americas
Museo de las Americas (credit: CBS)

Museo de las Americas
861 Santa Fe Drive
Denver, CO 80204
(303) 571-4401
www.museo.org

Date: November 2, 2012

The Museo de las Americas is a truly special art and history museum that celebrates the diversity and culture of Latino Americans. It plays an important role in promoting the Latino heritage and culture in Denver, so of course it is a perfect place to celebrate Dia de los Muertos. There will be many different festivities including altars, crafts and other traditions that are specific to the holiday.

Deborah Flomberg is a theater professional, freelance writer and Denver native. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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