by Jacqueline Hensley |
Cultures throughout history have found ways of honoring those who have died.
Catholics around the globe recognize All Saints Day or All Souls Day, a day for prayer and reflection of the lives of lost loved ones.
In Japan, the Obon or Bon Festival celebrated by Buddhists has been an honored tradition for centuries, and in modern days is a large carnival during which people visit and tidy the graves of friends and family — then revel with food and fun.
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Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is by far the most colorful and festive of all the celebrations for the departed.
Loved ones will prepare the favorite food and drink of the deceased, clean and decorate the graves, play music and enjoy life — in order not to upset the spirits.
The tradition started with the ancient Aztecs and as Spanish settlers came to Mexico, new traditions were formed, bringing about the celebration we know today.
Art has long played a huge role in Day of the Dead, and so this year, for the 2nd Annual Dia de los Muertos Celebration in Patchogue, the Cemetery Restoration Committee has partnered with Patchogue Arts Council, South Bay Arts Association and the Patchogue-Medford Library to create a bright, festive and artful event.
Keeping true to the tradition, an altar complete with photos of individuals buried at Lakeview will be set up by local artist Jessica Valentin, more commonly known as ratgrrl.
Jessica is adding her own artistic flair to the altar to create a striking visual for the soirée.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a photo of a loved one to place on the altar in remembrance.
The Patchogue Medford Public Library has been keeping local children busy creating tissue paper versions on the traditional cempazuchtl, or marigold flowers that are an iconic symbol of Dia de los Muertos to brighten up the tent.
In addition to the décor, the event will showcase local artists. Simple white plaster skulls are being transformed into works of art to be auctioned off at the event. Artists will also be creating masterpieces LIVE under the tent to be included in the auction.
Guests are highly encouraged to come in their best Day of the Dead regalia.
And if you are not artfully inclined, makeup artists will be available for the first hour for a small donation.
So join us Saturday, Nov. 4, at 255 West Main Street. Proceeds from the night will go directly to the Cemetery Restoration Committee of Patchogue and renovations to the Lakeview Cemetery that include repairing damaged headstones, maintaining and improving the property, as well as searching and gathering significant records that date back centuries.
Don’t miss out on this night of fun, history and so much more!
Click here and scroll down for tickets.
Promotional video by Benny Migliorino of Benny Migs Photo in Patchogue.
2016 file photo by Jacqueline Routh
