Linda and Bella Gomez enjoyed the traditions of Día de los Muertos at Daddow Park in downtown Gridley. Photo by Cindy Scott

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - Aztec dancers, a singing city financial director, and dancers balancing candles on their heads entertained the crowds that gathered to celebrate Día de los Muertos, a Mexican tradition honoring beloved ancestors. Food trucks, community organizations, and churches supported the event, organized by Gridley City Councilmember J. Angel Calderon since its founding.

Carmen Rosas (L), Jesse and Flor Gutiérrez stand at one of two offerings created to honor deceased loved ones. Photo by Cindy Scott

The entertainment began with Calpulli Tlayololt, a pre-Hispanic group of Aztec dancers from Woodland, California. They began their energetic performance by sounding conch shells to the four cardinal directions. Singers Angie Gutiérrez and Gerardo Negrete each performed traditional songs, and our soon-to-be Gridley City Manager, Elisa Arteaga, and the band August Jazz Band also engaged the crowd.

Día de los Muertos crowds enjoyed Calpulli Tlayololt, a group which performs pre-Hispanic Danza Mexica. Photo by Cindy Scott

The traditional parade and contest for those in Catrina costume and the music of Mariachi Nueva Generacion de Sacramento concluded the evening. Two beautiful altars, or “offerings,” with flowers, pictures, candles, treats, and toys honored deceased ancestors, the purpose of the event. Community members from all walks gathered to enjoy this lively cultural celebration.

Sandra Villanueva and Antonio Magaña enjoy the entertainment at Día de los Muertos at Gridley’s Daddow Park. Photo by Cindy Scott