#PickoftheWeek | Queens to Host Inspiring Dia de los Muertos Celebrations

Death doesn’t come with old age, it comes with being forgotten, according to Colombian writer Gabriel García Márquez. 

Queens Economic Development Corporation’s fourth annual Día de los Muertos ceremony unites two worlds — the living and the spiritual — to honor the dearly departed in Corona Plaza on Friday, Nov. 1.

To run from 6 pm to 11 pm, the free event features performances, food, costumes, candles, and skull artistry in the vicinity of 40-04 National St. At the center of it all, Colibri Cultura & Artesanias will build a huge, decorated altar with such offerings as fruit, bread, and the traditional cempasúchil (marigold flowers).

The live shows are set to begin at 7 pm, and the lineup includes the following:

Mexihcah with traditional Aztec dance in homage to ancestors and Mexican culture.
Danza Folclórica with four distinct styles: Danza Jalisco; Danza Saltillo; Danza Polka; and Danza Tecuanes.
Grupo Atl-Tlachinolli with dances deriving from Tolteca and Chichimeca cultures with Conchero traditions. Based in New York since 2006, the troupe’s name comes from Nahuatl, an ancient language the Aztecs spoke. “Atl” means “water” and “Chinolli” means “fire.” Grupo Atl-Tlachinolli combines these opposing forces to create harmony.
A vibrant and emotional Mariachi concert. 

One day to rest, and then out in Kew Gardens, Maple Grove Cemetery hosts another Día de los Muertos ceremony on Sunday, Nov. 3, from 1 pm to 5 pm.

To take place at the Maple Grove Center, this celebration opens a month-long, cultural-and-spiritual observance.

Jack Chi-Esquivel, who has Mexican and Chinese heritage, designed the ofrenda (altar). The Queens-based artist has created a minimalist installation with clay, foam, and plaster to create a space that plays with light and color to evoke a sense of calm reflection. The display features carefully chosen elements, including candles, marigolds, food offerings, and artwork created by local students from nearby PS 99.

On Nov. 3, Chi-Esquivel will discuss the symbolism and meaning of each item in the ofrenda. The run-of-show includes the following activities:

A Mariachi band accompanied by dancers celebrating life and memory at 3 pm.
A speech by Sweta Vikram, an author, grief coach, and doctor of Ayurveda, at 4 pm. She will provide insights on the importance of remembrance and healing, creating a reflective and supportive space for attendees to connect with their emotions.
A special 9/11 Memorial Service, highlighted by ringing the Maple Grove Bell.
Excerpts from Maple Grove Musician-in-Residence Margin Alexander’s upcoming “Maple Grove Cantata, March of Souls.”

Maple Grove’s entrance is at 127-15 Kew Gardens Rd.


Images: Atl Tlachinolli