Day of the Dead - San Francisco

Skeleton tapestry

Many believe that during the Day of the Dead, it is easier for the souls of the departed to visit the living. Family and friends congregate at cemeteries and in many cases even build private altars complete with photos as well as the favorite food and drink of the departed. The intent is to encourage visits by the souls, so that they may hear the prayers of the living directed to them.

In many cases the gatherings are more a celebration and may take on humorous aspects as the celebrants remember funny events or escapades of the deceased.

The common symbol for the holiday is the skull that may be depicted in gifts to both the living and the dead, represented in masks, or even part of clothed figurines called catrinas.

Catrinas, popular figures

While the holiday is commonly known for its celebration in Mexico and Latin America, similar holidays are celebrated in many parts of the world and in many different ways. In San Francisco, there is an annual event held in the Mission District that includes the building of altars and a procession through the streets that finishes at Garfield Park.   Beginning in the 1970's with processions of 100 people walking around the block, this year's event is expecting to exceed 20,000 people.

Through art, music, and ritual this event honors our ancestors and celebrates the vitality and richness of today's community. While the ceremony remains true to its Latino roots, the San Francisco procession actively encourages participation by people of all origins.

Bring candles, photos, food, or something that reminds you of a person that has passed away. The altars are community art installations that are intended to change as each person adds something to the hearth.

More information can be found at www.dayofthedeadsf.org or you can follow the group on Facebook.