Palenke Arts and Monterey Peninsula College proudly present Día de los Muertos, a free community event honoring those who have passed. This year’s celebration will take place on Saturday, November 1, at 6 PM at the Oldemeyer Center, located at 986 Hilby Ave, Seaside, CA 93955.

The evening will be hosted by Claudia Meléndez, award-winning Mexican American author and Master of Ceremonies. Festivities will include a community ofrenda (altar), performances by the Palenke Arts Bilingual Chorus, Danza Mexika, Ballet Folklórico, and live music by Herencia del Real. Guests can also enjoy local vendors and a special screening of Eternidad, a film directed by Iggy Figueroa, telling the story of a couple seeking reconnection in the afterlife.

This year, Palenke Arts will honor Carmen Mexicano, a beloved former Board Member — a gifted artist, teacher, parent, and community activist from Oaxaca who embodied the spirit and mission of Palenke Arts.

Community members are encouraged to bring framed photos to contribute to the ofrenda, or email images to info@palenkearts.org.

This celebration is sponsored by Monterey Peninsula College.