The Day of the Dead, widely observed in Mexico and other places as a joyful holiday celebration of Indigenous Mexican and ancient Aztec influences, will be on full display in Barrie tonight.
It involves family and friends gathering to pay their respects and to remember friends and family members who have died.
On Friday, Nov. 3 at 8:30 p.m., a parade will be commencing at The Mexican House, located in downtown Barrie at 24 Maple Ave.
The parade will be “meandering through the streets of downtown Barrie with live music, culminating at The Ranch," organizers say in a release.
The later get-together at The Ranch 2.0, located at 56 Bayfield St., is a 19-plus event.
“This gathering will serve as a platform for experiencing the live Fandango of Jalisco, introducing attendees to the rich traditions of this art form with music and dancing. The resonating sounds of Tarima will echo the heart of this tradition, while participants, dressed as Catrinas and Catrines, come together to create what promises to be an authentic Fandango in Canada,” organizers say.
Then, on Saturday at 6:30 p.m., during the final day of the celebration, an exhibition will be hosted at the MacLaren Art Centre, located at 37 Mulcatser St., where visitors will learn about the Ofrenda, which organizers say is a pivotal element of the Day of the Dead, renowned for its intricate details and symbolism.
“Attendees will have the unique opportunity to explore the Ofrenda in all its vibrant colours, ranging from the pre-Hispanic origins to contemporary interpretations,” says the release.
“As visitors follow the path adorned with cempasúchil flowers, they will be transported to the main stage, where skilled dancers and singers will illuminate the history of the Day of the Dead in Mexico through their performances," organizers say.
Additionally, there will be a photo exhibit and an artisnal market, which will “shed light on the profound meaning of the various elements that constitute the Ofrenda and pay tribute to our dearly departed.”
