To those not familiar with the Day of the Dead, celebrating death can seem like an odd thing. But the holiday is actually more about honoring loved ones that have passed on while acknowledging that death is an integral part of the human experience.
To observe this tradition, which has been officially celebrated in Petaluma for the last 12 years, more than a dozen events have been scheduled throughout the month. They include a kickoff celebration this Sunday at St. Vincent de Paul Church (1-4pm), art workshops, Mexican food tastings, poetry readings and concerts.
The celebration culminates in a candlelight procession on October 27 from Water Street Bistro to the Petaluma Arts Center, with attendees carrying paper mache dolls, photos of loved ones and other relics.
For a full schedule of events, visit petalumaartscenter.org