Día de los Muertos will come alive at Arte Américas this Saturday

Not even COVID can deaden the Día de los Muertos celebration at Arte Américas this year.

The pandemic, however, will have its impact on a shortened program that does not include the annual procession.

The Cala Gala will be from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday (Oct. 30).

“It’s a little shorter this year than in normal years because of COVID,” said Ruth Saludes, executive director of the Latino cultural arts center at the corner of Van Ness and Calaveras.

“It’s going to be an exciting day!” she added.

Attendees will be required to show proof of vaccination. They will also be required to wear a mask.

“We still want to make sure that everyone is safe,” said Saludes.

The highlights:

▪ Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama will be honored at 1:30 p.m. with the sounds of mariachi in the Plaza de Paz. Balderrama began his position in January.

▪ Lety La Catrina de Visalia will bring another figure that is 17-feet tall at 3:30 p.m. “She is constructing an altar of gowns she has used over the years. “We’re all excited to see her new dress,” said Saludes.

▪ Day of the Dead photos by former Assemblymember Juan Arámbula will be on display and are for sale.

▪ Ofrendas constructed by community members will be on display inside the center. One by Community Regional Medical Center pays tribute to health care workers who have died. An altar by the Dolores Huerta Foundation honors the LGBTQIA community.

Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for children.

Details: (559) 266-2623, or www.arteamericas.org