The big Day of the Dead 2024 celebration will take place on November 3rd starting at 3pm at Courthouse Square, Redwood City.
With the fresh autumn air as a prelude, Casa Circulo Cultural kicked off its highly anticipated 13th Annual Day of the Dead Celebration with a vibrant preview event. Held at the San Mateo County History Museum, the evening provided an immersive look at the cultural richness and craftsmanship that awaits at this year's premier celebration, Sunday, November 3rd at Courthouse Square from 3pm onwards.
The preview event was warmly hosted by representatives of Casa Círculo Cultural, who expressed their deep gratitude to their collaborators, including Telemundo, Don Pilar, Voler Strategic Advisors, and CP Fine Catering. These partners, along with numerous dedicated staff, friends, and volunteers, have played a crucial role in making the event possible.
This year's theme is inspired by Diego Rivera's iconic mural, Dream of a Sunday afternoon in the Alameda Central, which narrates 400 years of Mexican history. Attendees were invited to imagine Mexico in 1910, transported to a time when Porfirio Díaz ruled, marked by deep divisions between the wealthy elite and the impoverished masses.
The traditional dances of the pre-revolutionary and Revolutionary era represented the cultural and social atmosphere of those times, with a mix of waltz, polka, Revolutionary march and the iconic The Adelita?music that evokes the spirit of the Mexican Revolution.
One of the most captivating moments of the evening was the dramatic entrance of La Catrina, the elegant skeletal figure who symbolizes criticism of the Mexican elite of the early 20th century. La Catrina, played by Nancy Radcliffe, appeared alongside famous figures depicted in Rivera's mural, including Frida Kahlo (Fiorella Arias), Diego Rivera as a child (Gonzalito Blanco) and José Guadalupe Posada (Gonzalo Blanco), who originally illustrated La Catrina in The Garbancera Skull. This ensemble highlighted the powerful symbolism of La Catrina, fusing Rivera's homage to Mexican heritage with Posada's artistic legacy. The audience witnessed a unique representation of Mexican identity and cultural power.
The highlight of the evening was an emotional performance by singer Fiorella Arias, whose version of If only captivated audiences, embodying the themes of struggle, longing and hope that resonate deeply in Mexican culture.
As the evening concluded, Casa Círculo Cultural and the San Mateo County History Museum invited attendees to enjoy refreshments, socialize, and prepare for the main event on November 3. With a focus on cultural unity and commemoration, Casa Círculo’s Día de los Muertos Celebration promises a rich display of art, history, and community spirit—a true celebration of life, honoring the legacy of those who came before us.
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