Courthouse Square to ‘transform into a play’ for Día de los Muertos celebration

in A&E/Community

This Sun., Nov. 6 will see Redwood City’s Courthouse Square reimagined as a space honoring Día de los Muertos—a “Day of the Dead” observance of departed loved ones rooted in Mexican culture—via a play and a variety of special activities.

From 3:40 to 8 p.m., the square will become resplendent with sugar skulls, marigolds and other decorations as it becomes the scene of a play, during which musicians, dancers, artists and family altars will be on hand, per organizers.

Catrinas—the meaning of which is a shortened form of “elegant skull”—will wander the plaza to welcome community members, while a procession will proceed throughout Redwood City. A Catrinas, Catrines and Catrincitas contest will take place, as will another contest of Literary Skulls (the deadline to enter both has passed).

Locals can look for the vibrant papel picado paper folk art cutouts to find the Food Court, which will feature an assortment of traditional food options and vendor booths dotting the streets.

Along the square, the San Mateo County History Museum will host a free-admission exhibition of altars. Kids can also create their own traditional arts and crafts via hands-on activities that will be taking place.

The Día de los Muertos Celebration is hosted thanks to a collaboration of partners including Casa Círculo Cultural, the San Mateo County History Museum, Friends of the Redwood City Library and the Redwood City Parks & Arts Foundation. Climate Magazine is among the sponsors.

Courthouse Square is located at 2200 Broadway in Redwood City. For more info, click here.