Day of the Dead Comes to Life at the Library

Over the next few days the Los Angeles Public Library is hosting citywide celebrations to honor the traditions of Dia de los Muertos. From crafting sugar skulls to creating community altars to a collaboration with LACMA, there’s a range of cultural activities for all ages throughout the neighborhood branches. See below for a few event highlights, archival images from the Shades of L.A.: Mexican American Community Photo Collection, and check out these Dia de los Muertos book recommendations available at the Los Angeles Public Library.

http://jpg1.lapl.org/00079/00079315.jpg
Dapper papier-mache skeletons help celebrate the Day of the Dead. Photo credit: Michael Haering, October 28, 1982.

 

John Muir Branch Library

Altar Contributions can be made October 31 – November 11 during Library open hours

From October 31 – November 11, we invite all library patrons to view and contribute to our Community Day of the Dead Altar from opening to closing. Photos and mementos of loved ones are especially welcome.

 

Sylmar Branch Library

October 31, 2016 3:30PM to 4:30PM

Make Sugar Skulls (Calaveras) to celebrate Dia de los Muertos. Geared for ages 12 and over, but all ages are invited.

 

http://jpg1.lapl.org/00092/00092267.jpg
Participant is dressed as “La Catrina” in the “Dia de los Muertos” celebration at the Self Help Graphics Gallery in the Boyle Heights neighborhood. Photo credit: Virgil Mirano.

Jefferson – Vassie D. Wright Memorial Branch Library
November 1, 2016 3:00PM to 4:00PM
Make a Dia de Los Muertos mask!
 
Malabar Branch Library
November 1, 2016 3:30PM to 4:30PM

Teens and Kids celebrate Day of the Dead by making your own Día de los Muertos photo frame to honor your loved ones.

 

Vernon – Leon H. Washington Jr. Memorial Branch Library

November 1, 2016 4:00PM

Celebramos el dia de los muertos con hacer flores de papel, y dibujos para colorear calacas! Aprender acerca de la historia de esta fiesta mexicana. Celebrate the Day of the Dead by making tissue paper flowers and coloring pictures of skeletons! Learn about the history of this Mexican holiday.

 

Wilshire Branch Library

November 1, 2016 4:00PM to 5:00PM

In this free Do-It-Yourself craft to Celebrate Dia De Los Muertos, all supplies will be provided to make paper skulls with flowers, glitter, glue and markers.

 

http://jpg2.lapl.org/pics05/00012451.jpg
Irene and her friend Sandra at an exhibit for the Day of the Dead at Self Help Graphics. Families have displayed objects honoring members of their family that have passed away to show that they haven’t forgotten them.

Valley Plaza Branch Library
November 2, 2016 4:00PM

Join the Los Angeles Museum of Art (LACMA) at the Valley Plaza Library to celebrate the lives of loved ones and iconic figures who have passed away. Contribute to a community altar in observance of the Day of the Dead. Write a short story or anecdote about the person(s) you are honoring or create clay skulls, both called calaveras. This event if free for all ages.

 

Learn more about other Day of the Dead special programs at the Library.

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Share on