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'The Year of the Monarch' | Waco celebrates Día de los Muertos with festival

This free event catered to all, ensuring everyone can honor and celebrate loved ones in a festive atmosphere.

WACO, Texas — Creative Waco hosted its fourth annual Día de los Muertos celebration, which began with a parade and continued through the night. The festivities showcased the rich cultural traditions associated with this festive holiday.

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This year's theme, "The Year of the Monarch," symbolizes the souls of ancestors returning to visit their families, a reminder of the connections shared across generations. The celebration has grown tremendously in popularity, with this year's event breaking attendance records.

“This is an inclusive event,” says local organizer Julie Anne Cervantes. “The Hispanic community has done a great job helping people feel welcomed and honored to celebrate together. Death is part of all our lives; it’s not something to be feared but something to celebrate while we have our people here.”

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The festivities began with a colorful parade featuring traditional costumes, decorated floats, and lively music for spectators of all ages. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed live performances, local food trucks, and a variety of local vendors showcasing crafts and goods.

Cervantes emphasized the importance of cultural exchange, hoping this event would inspire people to celebrate all cultures. The celebration was free and invited families and friends to come together in remembrance and joy.

With a vibrant display of community spirit, Waco's Día de los Muertos celebration is becoming a beloved annual tradition for many families.

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