Mexic-Arte Viva La Vida Fest October 24, 2009

Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin, Texas presents Viva La Vida Fest 2009 celebrating the 26th Annual Dia de los Muertos on October 24th, 2:00 to 10:00 PM.

"Mexic-Arte Museum, the Official Mexican and Mexican American Fine Art Museum of Texas, will be celebrating its 26th Annual Dias de los Muertos - Austin's largest and longest-running Day of the Dead festival featuring Latino artist and entertainment, an exhibition, and educational programs in the heart of downtown. Part of the proceeds will benefit the education programs of Mexic-Arte Museum, whose mission is to enrich the community through education programs and exhibitions focusing on traditional and contemporary Mexican, Latino and Latin American art and culture."

In order to appreciate this annual event, knowledge of "Dia de los Muertos" is important.

"Dias de los Muertos is an important Latin American tradition, taking place on November 2, when friends and family gather to honor and remember loved ones - not through mourning, but through celebration! The origins trace back to Pre-Columbian era, when death was viewed as a transformation. Death was not seen as a final end, but rather as a cycle or continuation of life. This ancient belief evolved to the modern tradition of creating altars to commemorate loved ones, decorated with sugar skulls, flowers, photographs, and favorite foods and memorabilia of the deceased. They share stories and memories, and they sing songs and play music."

Rock y Roll Radio is very familiar with Mexic-Arte's annual Dia de los Muertos. The favored event is the Procession. It starts at Plaza Saltillo in East Austin, down 6th Street and concludes at 5th and Congress. The procession consist of participants in costumes, music, props and floats. It's an amazing and a very festive site watching the procession arrive at the Mexic-Arte Museum. You'll also find exhibits of art and decorated alters, music, food booths, artist booth, workshops and a Dia de los Muertos Marketplace.

This event also provides opportunities to participate. You can submit your art or decorated altar for display, march in the procession or be an event volunteer. Click on Viva La Vida Fest 2009 to get more details and registration forms.