El Centro Cultural de Mexico has been organizing Noche de Altares in Santa Ana since 2002

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Noche de Altares is a community-based event celebrating Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), an indigenous tradition. Organized by volunteers, the purpose of the celebration is to honor the tradition and our muertitxs by bringing community members together through art, culture, and compassion.

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For one night, families, students, community organizations, activists, artists, and businesses are invited to build an altar in memory of a deceased loved one or to bring awareness to a social issue.

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Participants in past events have dedicated their altars to their parents, siblings, and friends. They have also dedicated their altars to soldiers who have died in war, women who have made a significant impact in history, and people who have died of AIDS, cancer, and diabetes.

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In addition to viewing beautifully created altars, attendees will be entertained by cultural performances and live music. Children can get their face painted and participate in free, art workshops.