HOMEWOOD, IL — The Village of Homewood announced it is hosting a “Día de los Muertos,” or Day of the Dead, celebration on Oct. 16, in partnership with a local resident and docent, Gloria Contreas, to help guide and educate attendees on the historic traditions of the cultural holiday.

According to the village, Day of the Dead is a holiday that celebrates death as a natural part of the human experience. The village said while it sounds like a very somber day, it’s also a time of celebration, with many bright and colorful traditions to honor our friends and family who have passed on.

The tradition stems from ancient indigenous peoples of Mexico — Purepecha, Nahua, Totonac and Otomí — who believed that the souls of the dead return each year to visit with their living relatives to eat, drink and be merry, the village said.

“Come join us on Martin Avenue Square to enjoy festive displays, vibrant traditions, authentic music and delicious food and drink,” the village said. “End the evening with the movie Coco that will begin at dusk.”

The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Source: https://patch.com/illinois/homewood-flossmoor/homewood-host-day-dead-event