For those who haven’t had enough of the spooky spirit, Corazon Cinema and Cafe owner, Karla Wagner, partnered with Shannon Hart, from Shabby Events, to host a Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration from 7 to 10 p.m., Nov. 2, where food, drinks and salsa dancing will be featured to honor the dead and celebrate life.
“The Day of the Dead is a traditional Hispanic celebration and a celebration of life, so we thought throwing a party to honor the tradition of this colorful holiday was a perfect way to celebrate the vibrant culture of St. Augustine and it’s heritage,” said Hart. “‘Corazon’” in Spanish means “heart” and “at the heart of St. Augustine is its Hispanic roots.”
“It’s going to be a Day of the Dead dance and we’re hoping everybody dresses up,” added Wagner, excitedly. “The Day of the Dead originated in Mexico to actually celebrate the spirits in terms of them trying to invite them in, rather than keeping the spirits away.”
According to History.com, Dia de los Muertos is a holiday where families rejoice and create alters for their deceased family and friends and decorate them with “ofrendas” or gifts/offerings of food, drinks or any special items their deceased loved ones enjoyed.
It’s actually a three-day celebration starting on Oct. 31 for All Hallows Eve, then Nov. 1 with “el Dia de los Innocentes,” Day of the Children or All Saints Day and finally, Nov. 2, with All Souls Day, “Dia de los Muertos” or as known in the U.S., the Day of the Dead.
Wagner and Hart are also considering this as an extension of Hispanic Heritage appreciation month, which runs from mid-September to mid-October.
Attendees can expect vibrant, colorful decor, photo opps, salsa dancing, festive beverages like sangria and margaritas, food from the Corazon Cafe and a costume competition, where guests can come in Halloween costumes or traditional Dia de los Muertos attire. Winner of the best costume gets a gift basket filled with surprises.
Tickets to celebrate are $10 and includes a free salsa lesson from 6 to 7 p.m.
“I’m looking forward to this colorful celebration and the first public collaboration between Corazon Cinema and Shabby Events and Design,” Hart said. “We look forward to ‘celebrating life’ with those who come out, as well as coming up with new ways to throw fun and vibrant themed parties that entice folks to get creative, throw on a costume and come to town all year round.”
For upcoming events hosted by Corazon Cinema and Shabby Events and Design, www.corazoncinemaandcafe.com.
Corazon Cinema and Cafe is located at 36 Granada St. in St. Augustine.
