Tulsa's Dia De Los Muertos Arts Festival Highlights Traditions And Local Families

Dia De Los Muertos is Nov. 1-2 and dates back over 3,000 years, but in Tulsa, it became an annual celebration 30 years ago.

The Mexican holiday translates to the Day of the Dead and is a celebration of those who have passed away.

"In its origins, it is believed that on this day, our loved ones that have passed away come back and visit us for one night," said Laura Ruiz, Projects Manager at Living Arts of Tulsa.

The art gallery puts on the Dia De Los Muertos Arts Festival. There are vendors, food trucks, entertainment, and a blessing of the altars.

"The altars are very personal to the different families, so it is personal to their beliefs and also to the people that are being celebrated," said Ruiz.

This year, there are more than 30 altars made by local families, schools, and businesses.

Families will put items like food, photos, flowers, decorations, and trinkets on the altar that remind them of their ancestors.

During the festival, a priest will give a blessing of the altars at 9 p.m.

"Death is kind of a hard topic for some people to talk about," said Ruiz. "Grieving is something that is not fun to go through, but watching people set up altars and seeing this every year it is just a really beautiful process where people can really celebrate and enjoy the life of the people that they've lost."

A tradition that did not originate in Tulsa but one that the community is embracing. 

The Dia De Los Muertos Arts Festival goes from 6-9 p.m. on November 1. The altars will remain on display in the Living Arts Gallery through November 16.