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Monday, December 23, 2024 at 9:28 PM
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One weekend, two parades

A horse painted and flowered as part of the Nov. 2 parade. Photo courtesy Sonia Browder, city of Elgin

Elgin celebrated Día de los Muertos with a vibrant parade and festival this past weekend, coinciding with the Veterans Day parade and keeping the streets busy just one week after the city’s Hogeye Festival.

Downtown Elgin was transformed Nov. 2 with lively colors, music and traditions honoring departed loved ones, drawing in the community and visitors alike.

Altars, or “ofrendas,” were on display at the Clever Tiger Art Studio and Gallery, featuring traditional offerings. Families were also invited to add photos and notes to a community altar, a cherished way to commemorate those who have passed.

Main St reet came alive with the sights and sounds of Día de los Muertos as a strolling mariachi band, Ballet Folklorico dancers and costumed participants paraded through the heart of Elgin. Aztec dancers, stilt walkers and face-painted attendees added to the visual spectacle, celebrating the holiday’s rich heritage.

The festivities continued at the newly renovated Veterans Memorial Park, where families gathered for live music, games and a fire dancing showcase.

Elgin’s Día de los Muer tos celebration showcased the city’s cultural diversity and commun it y spi r it , blending tradition with vibrant expressions of remembrance and joy, attendees said.

Cub Scout Pack 471 canvasses Main Street during the Nov. 2 Veterans Day Parade. Photo courtesy of Sonia Browder, city of Elgin
Elgin’s proud Latino residents puppet handmade skeletons. Photo courtesy of Sonia Browder, city of Elgin
Traditional dancers bring the energy in full costume during the celebration. Photo courtesy of Sonia Browder, city of Elgin
Attendees dressed in their best for the big day. Painted faces spread across the town Nov. 2. Photo courtesy of Sonia Browder, city of Elgin
Carlos Gandia and Parks and Recreation Program Manager Elizabeth Marzec with a public sugar skull art piece before the Nov. 2 Dia de los Muertos parade. Photo courtesy of Sonia Browder, city of Elgin
A fire dancer keeps the night going with a blazing performance. Photo courtesy of Lillian Reyes Gates
The Cumbia Movement pose as a group after their set downtown. Photo courtesy of Sonia Browder, city of Elgin
Malorie Harrod with her decorated skull installation at the Clever Tiger Art Studio and Gallery. Photo courtesy of Lillian Reyes Gates

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