OXNARD — OPAC (Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation) is excited to announce its annual Día de los Muertos Celebration, a two-part event that will culminate on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, from 4-9 pm at the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center. Admission is free and open to the public.
This year, the celebration extends with a month-long Día de los Muertos Community Altar at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard, running from October 1 – November 2, 2024. This vibrant display titled “Recuérdame” (Remember Me) is hosted in partnership with The Collection and will be located between Lazy Dog and the Cheesecake Factory. The community is invited to honor their loved ones by participating in a heartfelt tribute to those who have passed.
Courtesy photo.
Community Altar Participation
We invite the public to contribute to the Community Altar by sharing photos of loved ones they wish to honor. Participation is simple:
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Submit Your Photo: To have your photo displayed on the altar, submit your image by September 29th via the submission form. A second submission window will be available until October 6th.
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Photo Guidelines: OPAC will print and frame one photo per submission.
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Important Rules:
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No Consumables or Open Flames: For safety reasons, no consumable, perishable, sharp or potentially hazardous items or open flames are allowed on the altar.
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Respectful Contributions: All submissions should be made with a spirit of love and remembrance.
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Photo Retention: Please be aware that items will not be returned after November 2nd.
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Opening Reception at The Collection
The Community Altar display will kick off with a special Opening Reception on October 1st from 6 to 7 pm at The Collection. The event will feature traditional performances by Grupo Folklórico Fusión Mexicana and Aztec dancers, offering a beautiful introduction to the month of remembrance. This event is free and open to the public.
Main Event at OPAC
On November 2nd, the Día de los Muertos celebration at OPAC will feature:
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A program emceed by Adam Lopez
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Blessing and ceremonial dance by Aztec Dancers
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Live murals and art installations
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Free Día de los Muertos printmaking
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Words from local poets and dignitaries
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Community altars created by artists and community groups
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Music provided by local DJs
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Family-friendly activities such as face painting, arts & crafts, interactive games, a complimentary photo booth, and more
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A variety of foods representing cultures that celebrate Día de los Muertos, including Mexican and Filipino cuisine
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Vendors offering artesanías, crafts, fashion, and other unique items
A best-dressed contest with local judges will also be a highlight of the festivities.
OPAC’s Día de los Muertos celebration is made possible by the generous support of The Collection, The Port of Hueneme, The Artist Tree, Mechanics Bank, County of Ventura, Lazer Media, and Mission Bank.
Community Altar Opening Reception
Tuesday, October 1 from 6-7 pm
@ The Collection, between Lazy Dog and Cheesecake Factory
598 Town Center Dr, Oxnard, CA 93036
Dia de los Muertos Celebration
Saturday, November 2 from 4-9 pm
@ Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center
800 Hobson Way, Oxnard, CA 93030
For more information and to submit your photo for the community altar, visit TheOPAC.org and The Collection.
These events are free and open to the public.