Throughout the year, our bustling mountainside town presents an assortment of special events. One of the most interesting is El Dia de Los Muertos in Murphys, CA. Join in the festivities at Murphys Community Park on the first Saturday of November! Once you’ve attended El Dia de Los Muertos in Murphys, CA, explore the rest of what this town has to offer.
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Everything You Need to Know About El Dia de Los Muertos in Murphys, CA
El Dia de Los Muertos in Murphys, CA, is one of the most compelling annual events that come to our town. Though it translates from Spanish into “The Day of the Dead,” this extravaganza is not a melancholy mourning, but rather a lively celebration of the lives of the deceased.
The Origin Story
El Dia de Los Muertos in Murphys, CA, maintains the same principles of celebratory spirit as the place of the festival’s origin: Latin America, and in particular Mexico. That is, the event is a celebration of the lives of the dead. As you walk around this festival, you’ll see vibrant displays of skeletons that are either dancing, hugging, or laughing to honor both life and death.
The Schedule
As you experience this cultural showcase, you’ll be captivated by the lively celebrations in the Park. Each of these events showcases a different tradition of El Dia de Los Muertos in Murphys, CA, and we urge you to explore the many happenings. Here’s a sample of what you can experience!
- Authentic cultural art exhibits
- Artisan vendors
- Ballet Folklorico
- Catrin/ Catrina Contest
- Dance lessons
- Delicious food like Mexican hot chocolate and pan de muertos
- Face painting
- Mariachi bands
- Live music in the park
- Self-guided Ofrenda tours
- Storytelling in the park
Before you go, check the weather and make sure to bring appropriate clothing with you to enjoy this festival to the fullest!
Welcome the Souls of the Dead
Perhaps one of the most famous traditions of this festival is greeting the souls of beloved ancestors. According to the mythos, this is the opportunity for the dead to rejoin the living in spirit from “the other side.” Angelitos (children) return first to enjoy the food and gifts. Adults are said to come back a day or two after and are greeted by their favorite things, including special loaves of bread, pottery, candy skulls, and flowers, just to name a few. In addition to the sights, you may smell the burning of marigolds and copal incense, which is believed to draw spirits to the world of the living. You don’t want to miss this mystical time here at Dia de Los Muertos in Murphys, CA!
Book Your Stay at Courtwood Inn
After your Dia de Los Muertos experience, make the scenic trip from downtown to our hilltop bed and breakfast. Here at Courtwood Inn, each of our relaxing accommodations showcases an abundance of natural light, eclectic decor, private balconies, and luxurious bathrooms. From the moment you step into our log-cabin retreat, you’re sure to feel the stress of your daily routine melt away.
Our beautiful Davis Cup room is the perfect place to recharge after a day of festivities. When you step in, you’ll feel like you’ve just taken a breath of fresh air, thanks to the light, airy decor, and the sunshine flooding into the room. Enjoy stunning views of the San Joaquin Valley from your private balcony, and wake up in the morning to a fresh, delicious breakfast. This is our pet-friendly room, so your four-legged friend is also welcome here.
With so much to celebrate and enjoy, why wait any longer to plan your getaway?
Book your stay in Northern California with us at Courtwood Inn!
