BEFORE the Dance: LIA President Michelle Gutierrez (12) and Adrian Colina (12) faced concerns while planning the Día de los Muertos Dance, as it coincided with a football game. Their worry wasn’t about losing the game but rather about the potential decrease in attendance due to students choosing the game over the dance. Since this dance had no CPA requirement, it allowed more students to attend.
“We will be having vendors, selling churros, elotes, esquites, and fresas con crema,” Gutierrez said. Vendors indeed delivered on their promise, and attendees enjoyed talking, dancing, and sampling the variety of food options. Prices were reasonable, making the treats accessible. “This dance is also three hours long — longer than any other dance,” Gutierrez said. Many students complained about sore feet and legs from dancing and standing, but that didn’t stop them from enjoying the event.
Día de los Muertos is a celebration and family reunion day where people honor their deceased loved ones and celebrate their lives. Traditions include setting up an ofrenda (altar) in the loved one’s name, dancing, and creating marigold pathways to guide spirits into homes to spend time with family and share food. The custom has indigenous roots, with some traditions originating from Spain. However, this tradition is not one of mourning but of joyful celebration, observed on November 1 and 2 in Mexico.
The Día de los Muertos Dance took place on October 25, 2024, organized by the LIA group, who awarded prizes for the best costumes. The winner for Best Single Costume was Jennifer Bertho (11), dressed as Harley Quinn. The Best Duo prize went to Jose Landa (11) and his girlfriend, dressed as Minions. The Best Trio award was given to Shantel Cano (9), Kalyee Muro (9), and Braley Ramirez (9), dressed as Alvin and the Chipmunks. The top prize for Best Catrina went to Evelyn Estrada Rodriguez (9), who wore a red dress and matching hat with detailed face paint. Many unique catrinas were present, but Estrada Rodriguez’s effort and dedication made her stand out.
The dance was filled with creativity and costumes, and nearly everyone participated in dancing. Though attendees requested more huapangos (Mexican folk music), they didn’t get as much as they wanted. The haunted house was popular, with long lines, drawing many away from the dance floor. Overall, the event was filled with fun, dancing, and costumes. The LIA class also provided face painting for students, adding to the festive atmosphere and doing an excellent job for both those in or out of costume.
