Altar and Catrina contests will indeed be part of traditional Day of the Dead celebrations in Puerto Peñasco this year, though with a limited public and broadcast live over social media.
With the goal of preserving Mexican traditions while also complying with health protocols, Day of the Dead altars will be set up at Casá Juarez this year. This will allow for controlled public access in limited numbers. The traditional Catrina and Catrin contest will be held without an audience though broadcast on social media so that people can watch from the comfort of their own homes.
City cemeteries will also be closed to the public on Nov. 1st and 2nd, to prevent large gatherings and health risks. Still, social media pages encourage the community to create altars for Day of the Dead in their own homes or patios.
It’s worth noting the altar and catrina contests held along the “Rodeo Drive” curios mall in recent years had positioned itself as a traditional event, drawing thousands of local residents and tourist to take part in our colorful customs, as well as delight in Mexican treats and artistic presentations
However, this year celebrations have been altered with the goal of ensuring people remain healthy and safe.
Day of the Dead Altar and Catrina Contest Program
Saturday, October 31st
Starting at 4 p.m. – Exhibition of participating altars – inside Casa Juárez and with controlled access
Altar dedicated to don Beto Molina at the Public Library, and traditional altar in the offices of the Tohono O’odham
6 p.m. Judges will evaluate participating altars (to be aired live from Facebook page of Gobierno de Puerto Peñasco)
8 p.m. Altar award ceremony (Casa Juárez)9 p.m. Catrina contest and awards at the Municipal Civic Auditorium, without an audience. To be broadcast on the Facebook page of Gobierno de Puerto Peñasco following the altar awards.