Fresno State Celebrates Dia De Los Muertos

For some, Halloween is a night of creativity and costumes while carrying out tricks or giving and getting treats.  But for others, November 1 marks the first day to welcome in the spirits of their loved ones who have died.  Dia De Los Muertos is celebrated in one way or another all around the world, and Fresno State’s community is no different. 

Lizbeth Andres-Aguilar says though her family only started participating in the Days of the Dead in the last few years, it has brought her closer to a side of her family she didn’t connect with before. 

“It reminds me of my family and the culture that for a very long time I wasn’t really super close into,” Andres-Aguilar said. “But now I’m kind of embracing it more. I’m trying to help out, set up the altar as well.”

Though many choose to celebrate Dias De Los Muertos with their families privately in their homes, Professor Adán Ávalos created an altar for people in the community to celebrate their loved ones together. 

“It’s not about being sad,” Ávalos said. “It’s about celebrating people’s lives. So when you hear other people’s stories, I learn things about people I didn’t know and learn about people in my community.”

Ávalos’ 8-year-old son Joaquin drew the blueprint for the altar. The altar is inspired by a photo taken of Avalos’ mother shortly before she died. 

“He really wanted to honor his grandma,” Ávalos said. “He never met her, but he really wanted to honor her.”

Ávalos hopes that those in the community will continue to come to the altar and encourages anyone interested to stop by and bring a picture and light a candle in memory of their loved ones.