A few weeks ago, on a cold Saturday, I took the kids to see the Dia de los Muertos Parade at Walker’s Square Park. I had forgotten that last year, Theo took the twins and Little T to it, while I stayed home with baby S who was just a few days old. From what I gather, it was just as cold this year, but less rainy than last.
We arrived after the parade had wrapped up, but I heard from friends who were on an opposite schedule that the parade was great. By the time the Storm clan got there, a drum circle had formed with a huge crowd around it. My kids were totally enthralled by the face paint, woman on stilts, and loud music. Soon after, the Mexica/Aztec Danzas came out and the crowd made room in the center.
I had the stroller with me, so we had a hard time getting a good spot to watch, but luckily Little T was super brave and independent and took her younger sister to the front row (sort of within my sight). Little T LOVED it all, but Little A was wary about the costumes and face paint.
After the dancing, there was a vigil for peace. Community members got up to speak about uniting our community, supporting each other, and standing up for peace. It was really meaningful to see so many different people get up and talk about the same message. Unfortunately the kids were freezing and didn’t really understand everything, so their request for the playground guided our next move.
Here’s a pic of all four. J had hit his limit and crashed in the stroller while we headed to the playground. It was packed! Lots of big and little kids climbing, running, sliding, and helping the littler kids out.
We snacked on some fries from a food truck, warmed our hands by a portable fire pit, and headed home. I had meant to have the conversation about what Dia de los Muertos celebrates, but it was really difficult while managing four little kids. I’m already looking forward to next year, and helping the kids understand the holiday…oh, and getting to this event in time for the parade.
Hope you’re all staying warm out there!
A. Storm
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