In the city of Howell, in Livingston County, Michigan, the historic Howell Opera House—an iconic building with more than 100 years of history—served as the venue for the city’s first-ever Día de Muertos celebration on November 2.

The event was organized by the Minority Education Freedom Foundation and Latinos En Michigan TV, offering the community an authentic cultural experience through traditional altars and a Día de Muertos sawdust carpet made from colored wood shavings.

Three traditional altars were displayed to honor deceased loved ones. One altar was dedicated to Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, two of Mexico’s most influential artists, who lived in Detroit between 1932 and 1933, during the period when Rivera created the iconic Detroit Industry Murals at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). The other two altars were family altars, highlighting the intimate and community-centered nature of this tradition.

Volunteers also created a Día de Muertos carpet, a traditional Mexican artistic expression made on the ground with brightly colored sawdust, symbolizing a welcoming path for the souls of loved ones.

The celebration featured special participation from Howell Mayor Bob Ellis and Vice Consul Daniel Aguado of the Mexican Consulate. The artistic program included a standout Mexican folkloric ballet performance by Joyas de México of the Casart Foundation, directed by Luly Del Real and Kenya Cruz. In addition, Kenya Cruz moved the audience with her performance of traditional Día de Muertos songs, including La Llorona.

Residents from Howell and surrounding communities attended the event, many of whom experienced a Día de Muertos celebration for the first time, fostering cultural understanding and community exchange.

The event was funded by the Minority Education Freedom Foundation and Latinos En Michigan TV, with generous support from the community. Local entrepreneur Cheli García donated 200 tamales, while Lolita Ramírez donated bread and prepared traditional Mexican hot chocolate for attendees.

This event marked a meaningful moment for the city of Howell and represents the beginning of future community celebrations aimed at honoring, preserving, and sharing the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic community.