Kansas City Honors Dia De Los Muertos with Colorful Parade and Community Spirit

Kansas City Celebrates Dia De Los Muertos with Vibrant Parade

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The streets of Central Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas were transformed into a dazzling display of culture and remembrance on Saturday as the city hosted its annual Dia De Los Muertos celebration. The air was filled with laughter, excitement, and a touch of nostalgia as families, friends, and community members came together to honor their loved ones who have passed away.

A Festival to Remember

This year’s event was a vivid celebration packed with a variety of activities, but the highlight surely was the stunning parade featuring over 30 floats. Each float told a story, showcasing the rich history and culture of Mexico, all while weaving through a parade route that stretched across nine blocks. Edgar Galicia, the Executive Director of the Central Area Betterment Association (CABA), shared his enthusiasm, saying, “We’re celebrating the Day of the Dead, which is an amazing Mexican celebration, and Central Avenue is where you want to be right now.”

Remembering Loved Ones

Dia De Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a heartfelt holiday dedicated to remembering those we love who are no longer with us. As Galicia noted, “This is like Memorial Day with a Mexican spice.” Throughout the event, people enjoyed traditional food, vibrant music, and engaging cultural traditions. The streets buzzed with creativity as attendees showed off their artistic sides with face painting and by dressing as Catrinas — a symbolic figure of the holiday combining skull imagery and beautiful flowers.

Catrina Contest Highlights

Among the festive participants was Dulce Calderon, who expressed her pride in her heritage as she took part in the popular Catrina contest. “I am a Catrina, and I won second place,” Calderon shared gleefully. “I’m very proud of my heritage and incredibly grateful that CABA is doing this for our Hispanic community.” Such expressions of cultural pride are at the heart of this multi-day celebration, allowing everyone to feel connected to their roots.

A Community Well Served

This year’s festival wasn’t just about the locals; it attracted visitors from outside the Kansas City metro area, with many folks traveling from cities as far as St. Louis. “We have received a lot of phone calls from people traveling from afar,” Galicia explained. “We’re like, yes, come down. We’re going to have a good time!” It’s fantastic to see how an event celebrating heritage can draw so many to come together in friendship and joy.

A Team Effort

The success of the celebration was no small feat, as it took the hard work and dedication of over 200 volunteers who ensured that everything ran smoothly. “A nighttime parade is always fun, but this one, with all the colors and the lights and people participating, it’s amazing,” exclaimed Galicia, capturing the essence of what was a truly memorable event for everyone involved.

Looking Ahead

As the festivities wrapped up, the buzz of happiness still lingered in the air, leaving participants feeling uplifted and connected to their loved ones. The celebration of life and memory captured the true spirit of Dia De Los Muertos, reminding everyone that, as Galicia said, “As long as you have someone living in your heart and the amazing memory of your loved ones with you, come and enjoy them because they’re visiting with you. They’re always here.”

With such a vibrant display of culture, community, and connection, it’s clear that Kansas City’s Dia De Los Muertos celebration is stronger than ever, bringing people together year after year to remember, celebrate, and ultimately, love.