Close to 10,000 people are expected to take part in one of San Diego's premiere Dia de los Muertos celebrations in historic Old Town.
"It's a big, big party! We like to celebrate death, instead of being sad, we like happiness, we like to party, we like to celebrate!" says San Diego resident Daniela Ebarra.
The Dia de los Muertos festival, November 1 - 2, celebrates the life and death of lost loved ones. According to event organizers, Dia de los Muertos is one of the most important holidays in Mexico and many South American countries.
"Day of the Dead is a happy moment. It's a way to celebrate those people that left us among the living and a remembrance of community and family," said Elia Smith of San Diego's Day of the Dead organization.
"It's a remembrance of all those that have passed on and during this holiday it is believed that their spirits come back," said Robert Barros, promoter for Day of the Dead festivities.
The highlight of the two-day event, takes place November 2nd at 6 p.m., when a procession will depart the Catholic church and head to the El Camp Santo Cemetery in Old Town.
"It's free," Barrio said. "People can come down and view the procession from the side of the street, or they can join in the procession."
Local
The Dia de los Muertos festivities will feature live music, food, drinks, face painting, artisan shows, sugar skull workshops and many other activities.
