The city of Santa Ana, California, comes alive each year during the Noche de Altares (Night of Altars) celebration, a vibrant event that honors the traditions of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Held on November 2, 2024, in the heart of downtown Santa Ana, this event is a cultural cornerstone in Southern California, drawing thousands from across the region to celebrate life and death through art, music, and remembrance.
Noche de Altares is organized by El Centro Cultural de México, a local nonprofit that has been instrumental in preserving and promoting Latinx cultural traditions. This year, the event took over 4th Street, transforming the area into a colorful, sensory-rich space filled with altars, called ofrendas, that paid tribute to the spirits of the departed. Each altar, adorned with candles, marigolds, photographs, sugar skulls, and offerings of food, was a testament to the personal stories and memories of those who had passed away.
The ofrendas not only reflect the richness of Mexican culture but also showcase the diversity of Santa Ana’s population, which has a large Latinx community. The altars created by local families, artists, and community groups were both traditional and modern, reflecting the evolving nature of the celebration. For example, one altar featured photographs of key local activists and leaders who had passed, showing how the tradition has adapted to honor contemporary figures.
In addition to the altars, the event featured live music, including traditional mariachi and Mexican folk performances, as well as ballet folklórico dance troupes that delighted audiences with their colorful costumes and graceful movements. This year’s event also showcased a series of community art installations, which explored themes of life, death, and remembrance.
“I believe that Noche de Altares is a powerful way to honor our ancestors and loved ones,” said Vanessa García, a community organizer for the event. “It is a celebration of life and death, where we remember those who came before us and pass on their stories to future generations.”
The celebration was not just about solemn remembrance—it was a lively, joyous event that connected generations of people. Young children learned about the meaning of the ofrendas, while older generations shared stories about the significance of each offering and decoration. The food offerings, including pan de muerto (a traditional sweet bread) and tamales, added to the festive spirit, giving attendees a chance to sample delicious foods tied to the tradition.
For Santa Ana, Noche de Altares is more than just a celebration; it’s a reminder of the importance of community, culture, and family ties. It highlights the continued relevance of Día de los Muertos in Southern California and its role in helping people connect to their heritage.
As the sun set on the vibrant night, the altars glowed with candlelight, casting a soft, golden hue over the street. The sounds of music and laughter filled the air, making it clear that the spirits of the departed were being celebrated in a way that honored both their memory and the lively culture of Santa Ana.
