In order to uphold traditions, while being mindful of the current state of affairs, the SOAC will host Avenida de Altares, a free drive-thru Day of the Dead event at the Mexican Heritage Plaza on Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31. Families and community members will drive through an impactfully lit outdoor gallery of Altars created by local artists. Calacas (skeletons) will be roaming the outdoor gallery while live music is playing, and goodie bags (w/ candy and art kits) will be distributed. Some lucky folks will also receive goodie bags with gift certificates to East San Jose restaurants!
Along with the altar gallery, community members will pass a beautiful makeshift graveyard where they can honor and pay respects to those who have passed on. Edgar Ochoa, Manager of the SOAC’s Community Engagement Program shares his take on this holiday and it’s lead up to the November election: “This day of the dead is bittersweet, and is a time of reflection for all of us. Now is a time to think about changes to come and how our people’s actions will determine the future of our communities. Heading out to vote is not only a way to make our voice heard, but it is a way to pay homage to the many who have sacrificed so much, and who are no longer with us, in order for us to have this privilege.”
Avenida de Altares is brought to you by Google, presented by AARP, and in partnership with Applied Materials, the City of San Jose, and Kaiser Permanente.
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