The first annual Día de los Muertos PHX took place in October, 2012. In the Día de los Muertos customs, Death and the dead are represented through altars, food, drink, photos, art, music and literature. The calavera, or skull, is the symbol of the day, its grinning image depicted in windows, sweet bread, candy and masks. Through these depictions, we remember the loved ones who have passed and we celebrate life itself.

Over 2,000 people gathered at Margaret T. Hance Park to commemorate their loved ones and to enjoy the cultural entertainment and activities provided by the Ehecatl Aztec Dancers, Ballet Folklorico Primavera, Ballet Folklorico Ollin Yolitzli, METALACHI and more. There were also food vendors offering tasty confections, face-painting stations, artist booths offering exquisite hand-made wares and art, and arts and craft stations for the children. Overall it was a fun-filled afternoon for families to revel in the richness of our cultural heritage.