Sneak Peek of Camino de Los Muertos

Dancers perform in front of crowd in the Sobrato Campus for Discovery and Innovation courtyard at the 2024 Camino de los Muertos. Photos provided by Miguel Ozuna.

The celebration honoring the reunion of the living and dead in Latine culture, Día de los Muertos, takes place through “Camino de los Muertos” on the Santa Clara University campus on Nov. 1.

Traditionally, celebrations include the building of ofrendas—offerings or altars—adorned with items cherished by loved ones and surrounded by caléndulas, or marigolds. Families and friends gather to share memories so the departed may be remembered and welcomed back for the evening from the afterlife.

Although the loss of a loved one may seem like a tragedy, Día de los Muertos is celebrated as a joyful and uplifting tradition that honors remembrance—and this year, the University is bringing the festivities to students through its third annual celebration.

“Camino de los Muertos” invites members of the University community to come together, honoring tradition, togetherness and education about this cultural practice.

The celebration runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 1, with a special Mass at 4 p.m. beforehand. Events will take place across campus; including the Mission Church, the Mission Gardens and the Sobrato Campus for Discovery and Innovation courtyard. The gathering is hosted in collaboration with the Mexican Consulate of San Jose, Univision 14 and Santa Clara University.

This event is free and open to the public. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including artisanal crafts, food, altars, music, dancing and more.

One of the groups performing is Santa Clara University’s Ballet Folklórico, an on-campus club dedicated to traditional Mexican dances. They will perform four pieces in the Sobrato courtyard.

“Day of the Dead is a huge celebration in our culture, and being able to represent our roots, especially during this time, means a lot to us,” says Maria Tobar ‘27, the co-director of Ballet Folklórico. “My hope for this performance is to honor my loved ones who have passed away and also shed light on the importance of celebrating one’s culture.”

Tobar also explained that this event is an amazing opportunity for the newest members of Ballet Folklórico to reconnect with this style of dance in college—or, for some, to experience it for the first time

As preparations continue for “Camino de los Muertos,” students and community members are eagerly anticipating an evening of culture, remembrance, and unity. 

For more on Camino de los Muertos, visit Santa Clara University’s informational page.