Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Since pre-Hispanic times in Mexico, indigenous people have worshiped death and have conceived it as a duality of life, part of the cycle of nature.

When the conquerors arrived, the death cult merged with the Catholic religion, giving rise to the tradition of celebrating El Día de Los Muertos, (the Day of the Dead) which takes place on November 1 and 2 of each year.

Day of the Dead celebrations vary from region to region, and from village to village. But all have a common principle: the family gathers to welcome the soul or souls of their loved ones, attracting them with altars on which ofrendas, offerings of the dearly departed's favorite foods and objects, are placed. It is also common to visit the cemetery and clean up the tombs, attend religious services, and sit down together to share a meal and fond memories of deceased loved ones with much nostalgia.

Los Mangos Library and Cultural Center invites everyone to celebrate our traditions at this year's Day of the Dead festival, set to take place on Saturday, October 28 at 7:00 pm.

In addition to admiring the beautiful alter dedicated to Doctor Armando Sotelo Macias, a great man dedicated to working for education and culture, you'll enjoy a host of family-friendly Día de Los Muertos activities, including singing, dancing, music and storytelling; an art show, calaveritas, a Catrin and Catrina contest, and much more.

This event is designed to entertain all ages, so come and enjoy it with your whole family. For more information, call (322) 224-9966, or visit bibliotecalosmangos.com.