DOWNTOWN MERIDIAN, WILL BE HONORING DIA DE LOS MUERTOS MS, HIGHLIGHTING THE TRADITIONAL MEXICAN CULTURAL CELEBRATION OF LIFE AND DEATH, DURING ONE DAY.
Free Admission
This year, Day of the Dead MS presents the Art Alley, a collection of street art designed and painted by Meridian Community College artist and Graphic Design instructor Daniel Ethridge, North East High School Art instructor Cary Haycox, Lamar National Art Honors Society instructor Leslie Carruth, and the Meridian Debs Social Services Club. Every instructor will work with students from each institution, including Lamar High School. Their art and designs will pay homage to the Day of the Dead colorful and vibrant tradition.
Art Alley
Skulls
Large-scale Skulls created and painted by Ethridge and volunteers will also be on display.
Student Art Contest
Students are encouraged to summit Day of the Dead theme artwork in blacklight reactive colors for a Student Art Contest. The artwork will be displayed under blacklight during the Day of the Dead MS.
Costume Contest
Both, Dumont Plaza and 5th street (between 23rd & 22nd Ave) will be reserved to welcome attendees and converted to a colorful and beautiful Dia de Los Muertos wonderland. Visitors are encouraged to wear Day of the Dead makeup and/or attire to become part of the festivities and part18icipate in our first Catrina & Catrin Costume Contest.
Attractions
Day of the Dead MS also features altars, mural paintings, music, dance, food, Campo Santo (cemetery) and El Gran Altar, a community, and pet altar for attendees to participate in by bringing a candle, marigold flowers, and/or a photograph of their love one or pet to place at the altar area.
Entertainment
This Día de los Muertos performances will include Live Mariachis and traditional Mexican dances. An unforgettable Elvis Presley impersonator performance. One of the best traditional New Orleans Jazz Bands, Marty Peters & The Party Meters, will bring their unique balance between depth of experiences and musical playfulness. The event will also include a beautiful surprise from the Meridian Symphony Organization. And get ready to close the night dancing salsa and cumbia with the Latin flavor of Vibra Latina.
Health and Safety
Dia de los Muertos MS remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of the community, visitors, and staff. All guests are encouraged to practice physical distancing and use face covering. Each installation will be properly spaced out to ensure there is enough room to view them safely.
Linda Candelo, Founder & Organizer of Day of the Dead MS said: “We are excited to welcome local communities and visitors from all over and of all cultural backgrounds to learn about and partake in this festive ancient and historical tradition which reinforces familial bonds.”