Day of the Dead

One can live in San Francisco for over 15 years and never fully experience the diversity and richness of this amazing city.  I admit, I’ve taken this city for granted, often choosing to stay home and watch television instead of going out and exploring the vibrant music, art and cultural scene.  Realizing I was becoming increasingly antisocial and boring in my “old age”, I decided to drag my ass off the couch and engage in a new meaningful experience that only a unique place like San Francisco can offer.

I’ve heard about the Day of the Dead or Dia De Los Muertos Procession in the Mission District for years, but have never gotten around to attending the festivities until now.  This annual Meso-American holiday, held on November 2,  is dedicated to celebrating deceased ancestors, while honoring the cycle of life and death.  The event started off at Garfield Park where motivated individuals set up elaborate altars to honor friends and family who have moved on.  I was touched by the commitment of so many people to keep the memory of loved ones alive. As the evening progressed, thousands of adults and young children descended upon the crowded streets of the Mission, wearing elaborate lace and embroidered Mexican costumes.  While many danced joyfully behind an Afro-Brazilian drumming group, the majority of people walked contemplatively with their lit candles, in remembrance of loved ones.  Everywhere I turned, grim skeletal faces, painted black and white to mimic the deceased, looked back at me, and I was struck by the beauty of these anonymous participants.