Dia de los Muertos Celebration in Lincoln on Saturday, Oct. 29: 10am to 4 pm

The third annual Dia de Los Muertos celebration comes to the Village of Lincoln on Saturday, October 29th with a full range of fun events planned; admission is free.  The event is from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  The Village of Lincoln is located 12 miles east of Capitan, on Highway 380 (Calle la Placita).

Family activities include mask decorating, paper flower making, face painting by popular local artists and displays  of "ofrendas". These free events will occur throughout the town of Lincoln.  Dr. Cynthia Orozco will demonstrate the building of an "ofrenda" and talk about this Hispanic tradition.  Mariachi bands and folkloric dancers will entertain. A schedule of events will be posted at various merchants' locations.  Door prizes will be offered;  get free tickets from participating merchants in Lincoln.

The story of Dia de Los Muertos  (Day of the Dead), observed  the world over, is celebrated in many ways, including the decoration of cemeteries and the building of "ofrendas", or altars to the deceased decorated with flowers, food offerings, photos and mementos.  This celebration expresses the idea that death is not to be feared, but embraced as a part of life.  Communities and families await the return of lost loved ones for food, music and fun.

Entertainment will feature "La Ultima", a New Mexico Spanish music trio from Carrizozo, "Mariachi Univo" from Carlsbad, NM,  and "Lubbock's All Star Mariachi Band" of Lubbock, TX;.  The musicians  will be performing for the entire day, throughout Lincoln. The Hondo Dancers will perform traditional Folklorico dances.

 Featured speaker is Dr. Cynthia Orozco, who will build an "ofrenda" for Juan Patron, the first known teacher in Lincoln County and a speaker of the house for the Territorial Legislature in the 19th Century.   While building the "ofrenda",   Dr. Orozco will discuss the history of the observance by indigenous people of  Mexico,  Europe and the U.S.   Orozco has taught New Mexico, Lincoln County, and U.S. history, and the humanities at ENMU for 15 years.  Born and raised in Texas, she has personal experience with "Dia de Los Muertos".   Her talk will take place in the Lincoln Community Church at 3 p.m.  Local eateries will provide food and drink specials. Plan to bring friends and family to the Village of Lincoln for a fun-filled and historical day,  on Saturday, October 29th, from 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  For more information call 575-653-4045. 

Contact person:  Annmarie LaMay- 575-937-3755

The Hondo Dancers to perform traditional Folklorico dances