CWU invites community to campus for Día de los Muertos celebration

Central Washington University will be hosting a series of activities this week as part of our Día de los Muertos celebration, a vibrant and culturally rich event that will pay homage to the Mexican and Central American holiday.

The annual celebration, hosted by the Diversity and Equity Center (DEC), promises to be a memorable occasion that will provide a unique and educational experience for people of all ages. Members of the CWU and Ellensburg communities are invited to join us in celebrating this holiday tradition as we seek to build cultural awareness and understanding.

“We are excited to host this vibrant and educational celebration of Día de los Muertos at Central Washington University,” DEC Director Mal Stewman said. "This event is a testament to our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the celebration of cultural heritage. We hope to provide a meaningful and enjoyable experience for everyone who joins us."

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a time when families in Mexico and across Central America gather to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have passed away.

Among the highlights is Thursday’s concert featuring Los Faraones Del Norte, a Norteño Versatíl group from Guanajato, Mexico. CWU graduate Eduardo Ramirez Jr. serves as manager for the Wenatchee-based band.

Visit the CWU-Ellensburg campus throughout the week for the following events:

• Monday, October 30 — Screening of the movie “Coco” during Monday Movie Madness at 5 and 8 p.m. Free for students or $5 for community.
• Tuesday, October 31 — The Library will be making paper maché marigolds, which are a significant flower for Día de los Muertos. 1 p.m., Second Floor Commons, Brooks Library
• Wednesday, November 1, 5 p.m. — CWU MEChA chapter will host its general meeting and make photo frames to use for the “ofrenda,” or altar. There will also be a slideshow commemorating loved ones who have passed away.
• Thursday, November 2 — Two lively events will help CWU celebrate the actual Day of the Dead.
  • From 5-7 p.m., join us in Holmes Dining for a Día de Los Muertos-themed menu from CWU Dining Services, including tamales, mole, salsa, and more. There will also be music and trivia. Cost is $12 and dining plan discounts will apply.
  • From 7-9 p.m., we will have a big celebration in the ballrooms featuring Los Faraones del Norte. Free hot chocolate and several activity stations, such as face painting and sugar skull decorating, will also be offered.

This week’s events are co-sponsored by Brooks Library, MEChA, SLICE, and CWU Dining Services. Anyone interested is also invited to check out the informational display in the SURC corridor and various ofrendas around campus, including the library, Career Services, and McIntyre Music Building.

To learn more about the CWU Día de los Muertos celebration, contact Justin Santoli at santolij@cwu.edu or 509-963-1651.