Reflecting on the Magic of Día de Muertos: A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community.

The Día de Muertos Celebration, presented by RISEUP [Calgary’s Downtown Vibrancy Program] and organized by the Hispanic Arts Society, was a resounding success! Heartfelt thanks to the community, collaborators, sponsors, and everyone who joined us in this enchanting night of Mexican art and culture.

This event wouldn’t have been possible without your support. From attendees, volunteers, partners, and sponsors like Fonda Fora, Jarritos, Tequila Don Julio, La Molienda Latin Food Products, City of Calgary, and Calgary Arts Development, each of you played a vital role in making this event special.

Families and friends came together in a joyous and colorful atmosphere to remember loved ones and celebrate life. The Day of the Dead altar and Día de Muertos-inspired art created a moving environment. Special thanks to Roxana Nájar and Mariela Parra for crafting the Altar de Muertos, a beautiful tribute to Frida Kahlo, and to Brenda Gómez and Ana Martín del Campo for their collaborative efforts.

Our talented artists, musicians, dancers, and storyteller added an extra dimension to the event. Storyteller Mera Reyes, musicians Max Appelt and Sergio Carrera Nava, singer Cassandra “La Voz,” and Mariachi Internacional Sol Azteca graced us with their performances. Kudos to the artists exhibiting their artwork: Ana Martín del Campo, Roxana Nájar, Jesús Harada, Rick Patassini, Daniela Szeoke, and Mariela Parra; Marakame Mexican Dance and Art Association for modelling the beautiful Mexican dresses, and our wonderful emcee Adania Reyes, and sound engineer Jorge Szeoke.

Special thanks to Fonda Fora owner and staff for providing the perfect space for our celebration. We appreciate Canadian filmmaker Mark Locki for sharing insights about the upcoming documentary “Los Sotoleros” and bringing the Sotol tasting.

The Día de Muertos celebration reminded us that through culture, art, music, food, stories, and tradition, we can keep the memory of those who have passed alive. Thank you for being part of this event, and we hope to see you next year!

Enjoy the beautiful photos taken by photographers Doug Wong and Flore Villasuso at the event. 📸✨ 

With gratitude,
The Hispanic Arts Society