After a festive Mexican Independence Day, the School of Arts and Culture at MHP (SOAC) is pleased to announce its 6th annual Día de los Muertos celebration, Avenida de Altares (Avenue of the Altars). This annual tradition has become the landmark event of Muertos season in San José. Embrace the spirit of Día de los Muertos with Bay Area cumbia legends La Misa Negra on Saturday, October 28, from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. This year’s celebration of life promises an immersive experience featuring a beautifully curated altar walk, art exhibition, tarot readings, and more.
The evening will kick off with a mesmerizing traditional Aztec dance ceremony by San José natives Calpulli Tonalehqueh. The altar walk will start at the intersection of Alum Rock Avenue between King Road and extend towards Highway 101, featuring performances by homegrown DJs, Folklórico dance groups, and unique altars decorated by local artists.
After the altar walk experience, attendees return to La Plaza, where captivating activities beckon. Here, a marketplace awaits, brimming with diverse vendors offering unique artisan goods. For those seeking mystical insights, tarot readers will offer inspired guidance. As the night descends, a visually enchanting cemetery adorned with even more altars provides a stunning backdrop. For individuals with a keen interest in local food vendors, a delightful array of food options will be available throughout the night to satisfy any cravings.
Also, in collaboration with Works/San José, SOAC proudly co-presents the captivating “Afterlife” art exhibit. La Plaza’s Gallery will showcase 100 carefully curated local art pieces, creating a wonderful opportunity for exploration and appreciation.
Avenida de Altares is presented by Silicon Valley Community Foundation, PG&E, and made possible by Office of Councilmember Peter Ortiz, Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley, Santa Clara County Parks, National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Google, Destination: Home, Meriwest Credit Union, Steinberg Hart, Excite Credit Union, Golden State Warriors, BluSky Restoration Contractors, On Lok PACE, Palo Alto Networks, CA Bank of Commerce, Rocketship Public Schools, Alpha Public Schools, The Health Trust, AARP, Office of Councilmember Bien Doan, Comcast, Office of Councilmember Omar Torres, Stanford Health Care, Kaiser Permanente, Office of Councilmember David Cohen, Charcoalblue, Office of Councilmember Domingo Candelas, 23andMe, and Office of Councilmember Dev Davis.
