Ballet Folklórico Xochiquetzal celebrated Día de los Muertos at Shoreline College November 6, 2026

Story & Photos by David Carlos

Vibrant costumes, swirling skirts, lively mariachi music, and colorful face paint filled Shoreline College's Maple Student Union on Friday, November 6, 2026 as families and community members gathered for the fourth annual Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration.

Presented by Ballet Folklórico Xochiquetzal in collaboration with Shoreline College, the free event celebrated Mexican culture while honoring the memories of loved ones who have passed.

Día de los Muertos is a centuries-old tradition rooted in Indigenous Mesoamerican beliefs. Observed primarily on November 1 and 2, the celebration honors deceased family members and friends through music, food, flowers, candles, and ofrendas (offerings).

The evening began with opening remarks by Ballet Folklórico Xochiquetzal board member Elvira Pérez, an Indigenous blessing by Yankton Sioux tribal member Jacques Bragg, and a welcome from Shoreline College President Dr. Jack Kahn. Xochitl Palacios, founder and director of Ballet Folklórico Xochiquetzal, introduced the cultural performances.

Young dancers wearing traditional Mexican dresses in brilliant shades of red, blue, green, and orange delighted the audience with energetic performances representing the regions of Veracruz, Michoacán, Jalisco, and Sinaloa. 

Some performers wore elaborate calavera (skull) face paint and floral headpieces, while others appeared in traditional charro attire and wide-brimmed sombreros.

Live music by Mariachi Mi Tierra and Santana Charro Bros. added to the festive atmosphere, while attendees enjoyed a community meal featuring Mexican cuisine.

A more reflective side of the celebration was found at the community ofrenda, where visitors left handwritten messages honoring departed loved ones. Surrounded by bright orange marigolds and glowing candles, the personal tributes served as reminders of the enduring bonds between generations.

Beyond the colorful performances and festivities, the evening reflected the spirit of Día de los Muertos — a celebration not of death, but of life, family, cultural heritage, and remembrance.

Three minute video of the event here