News from: The City of Indio

The City of Indio is remembering and honoring the living and the dead, with a Día De Los Muertos celebration at the Indio Senior Center (ISC) Community room, on Tuesday, Nov. 2 starting at 1:30 p.m.

Festivities include food, culture, and activities for ISC members that highlight the unique traditions of Mexico, where mourning is exchanged for celebration.

The living will have the opportunity to create beautiful altars to remember and honor those who have departed. These altars will be decorated with bright yellow marigold flowers, photos of those who have passed on, and the favorite foods and drinks of the one being honored. The offerings are believed to encourage visits from the land of the dead, as the departed souls hear their prayers, smell their foods, and join in the celebrations!

“We are very proud of our diverse senior population,” said Indio Senior Center Community Program Administrator Argelia Jimenez.  “With so many stories to tell, the ISC strives to provide a place where individuals can share their knowledge, skills, traditions, and immense love to the community.”

The altars will be displayed in the Indio Senior Center Community Room beginning October 25th through November 5th. Members are welcome to bring pictures and objects that remind them of their departed to be included on the altar. On Nov. 2, the ISC will provide tamales, Mexican bread, and champurrado for all member attendees.  Those who come with their faces painted can also enter a contest for prizes.

For additional information about the Indio Senior Center, go to www.indio.org/seniorcenter or email [email protected].