B.E. Welcoming members pose in front of the ofrenda at the 2022 Day of the Dead Festival, which was held at 10 Talents Art Center.

The Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, is commonly celebrated on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 by people of Mexican heritage.

Although the holiday originated in Mexico, its purpose – to celebrate the lives of those who have passed away – can be appreciated universally.

Recognizing this, B.E. Welcoming held its first-ever Day of the Dead Festival last October.

The group will host its second annual Day of the Dead: A Cultural Experience on Sunday, Oct. 29, from noon to 3 p.m., at Blue Earth’s 10 Talents Art Center.

Day of the Dead celebrations are centered around the living’s remembrance of the dead. To celebrate and commemorate those they have lost, families create ofrendas, or offerings, to honor departed friends and family.

The ofrendas are decorated with bright marigolds, photographs of the dead, and their favorite food and drink. The offerings are an important piece of the celebration, as they are believed to encourage loved ones to visit their living relatives during the celebration.

B.E. Welcoming’s Day of the Dead Festival will honor this tradition with its own ofrenda. Attendees are encouraged to bring photographs of departed loved ones to add to the altar.

There will also be several activities offered, including piñatas, face painting and other activities for kids.

Not to be forgotten is food. Attendees will be able to purchase a wide variety of authentic Mexican cuisine, including tacos, pazole, flautas, tamales and street corn.

New this year will be the musical talents of Twin Cities-based band Alma Andina, who will be appearing live at the event.

Alma Andina combines traditional instruments from South America with Latin rhythms such as Cumbia, Salsa, Folk, Guajira, Latin Rock, Reggae and other danceable styles. And, they do, indeed, encourage their audience members to dance along to their music.

Members of B.E. Welcoming hope the community will turn out in full-force to attend the event, which will be the product of many months of planning.  

The group is always open to new members. Those who have ideas to share, or who wish to join, can contact the Blue Earth Chamber of Commerce or Blue Earth City Hall, or they can visit the B.E. Welcoming Facebook page.

The group is also open to Blue Earth Area students, who can inquire with Brenda Millmann at BEA High School if they wish to join.