Arte Americas celebrates post-pandemic reopening with Día de los Muertos in downtown Fresno

Arte Americas in downtown Fresno marked it post-coronavirus pandemic reopening Saturday when it held its annual Cala Gala celebrating Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama, a guest of honor, called the event “a great opportunity to celebrate our culture.” It featured folkloric dancers and art displays, but skipped the traditional procession in deference to COVID safety protocols.

Día de los Muertos is a holiday observed between Nov. 1 and Nov. 2. The Mesoamerican holiday is steeped in Catholic tradition. Since the release of the 2017 Pixar film “Coco,” it has become more popularized in the U.S. by younger generations.

The holiday is a celebration for family members and friends to remember their loved ones who have died by decorating altars of the deceased with their favorite foods, belongings or portraits. For many who celebrate the holiday, it is believed that Día de Los Muertos allows the deceased to visit the living world.