Locals celebrate the dead

Millions of people around the world and in Salinas gathered this weekend to celebrate the Mexican holiday Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead.

Ten years ago, many people in this country didn’t know much about it, now that has changed.

“The altar I have in the front it’s both my mom and my dad they both passed away,” said Marylu Alejo.

Altars, booths and entertainment to celebrate and remember the lives of family and friends who have died.

“It’s a celebration that they weren’t able to do,” said Miguel Perez. “So we’re celebrating them, and keeping their memory alive.”

Not only has this particular event evolved over time but so has the holiday.

“A lot of different people from all over are taking this holiday and embracing it and adding it to their own festivities and they really like celebrating it,” said Perez.

Some believe the Day of the Dead is growing in popularity because it’s getting more exposure and people of all cultures and backgrounds can relate.

“They like knowing that they can also memorize their relatives and come together with this beautiful culture and tradition,” said Alejo.

Like other mainstream holidays, Day of the Dead is becoming big business.

“Now if I go to the stores I see a lot of the stuff like the banners,” said event coordinator Nicolasa Alvarez. “I see a lot of the sugar skulls, I see a lot of like the design everything.”

Event organizers say the city of Salinas plays a big role in the success of the event at Closter Park.

“We have the city of Salinas that basically helps to support our event,” said Alvarez. “They don’t charge us to be here. They help us out with the permits. They help us out you know they guide us a lot.”