The Latino Research Center returns to hosting its annual free community event to celebrate Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos). Students, university organizations and all community members are invited to attend the celebration.

This event is Sunday, Oct. 30, from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Joe Crowley Student Union Ballrooms on the fourth floor. Everyone is invited to participate and observe the rich heritage of this event through a variety of cultural activities for participants of all ages.

Although the tradition of Day of the Dead has its roots in the ancient Aztecs of Mesoamerica to honor our beloved deceased, the holiday is now celebrated throughout the world.

To preserve and share the traditions of this holiday, the Latino Research Center, in collaboration with The Multicultural Center at the University, will be showcasing an exhibition of altars (altares). Altars are a way to honor the lives of those who have passed, they include food offerings and personal items to remember our dearly deceased.

The altares will be on display at the Joe Crowley Student Union in the  third floor vestibule beginning Oct. 24 with some of the altars that will be featured during the celebration event. Event goers can enjoy the live entertainment, music and arts and crafts, such as decorating of sugar skulls, papel picado (paper cut-outs), and face painting.

The Latino Research Center is grateful for generous grant support through the City of Reno Arts and Culture Commission, along with support from The Multicultural Center, Alianza and The Joe Crowley Student Union.

For more information contact the Latino Research Center at 775-784-4010 or latinocenter@unr.edu.