As Halloween quickly approaches, students at the University of Louisville are doing their best to prepare for the spooky night. To get students in the spirit of the season in a more culturally diverse way, the Student Activities Board, along with Latin American and Hispanic Student Association (LAHSO) and Lamda Theta Phi, hosted their very own Dia de Los Muertos (translated to Day of the Dead), right in the SAC multi-purpose room. The holiday-inspired event took place on October 24, and was open to the whole community.
Dia de los Muertos is a holiday honoring those who have passed, often celebrated in Mexico and other Latin American countries.
“It’s to celebrate the dead,” Senior and LAHSO president Ana Ruiz explained. “It could be a family member or even a beloved celebrity.”
Ruiz also pointed out that some traditions often include painting sugar skills and making favorite food of the deceased’s.
UofL’s Dio de Muertes had it’s own feast of Mexican food. Local band Salsa Rhythms also provided upbeat music throughout the night, while attendees attempted to salsa dance in the large hall. Mini pumpkins, provided by SAB, and sugar skulls were also available to paint, as tradition dictated.
Sophomore Diana Lalata painted her own mini pumpkin with some other members of the community.
“It’s a really cool holiday,” Lalata said. “I’ve learned how to salsa [dance], the food was really good and everyone’s having a good time.”
This was LAHSO’s third year hosting the event. The previous year, the organization collaborated with SAB to reach a larger audience. This year, new Latin fraternity, Lambda Theta Phi, grouped up with them as well.
Senior Luis Ardez, one of the founders of Louisville’s upcoming Latin fraternity, said it was the first event for them.
“It’s important to learn about a different culture,” Ardez said. “It’s also good to learn within the Latin American community.”
