Verde Valley News – In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Camp Verde Community Library (CVCL) is excited to present a coloring contest, for grades 1st through 8th grade, and a series of interactive workshops centered around the Dia de los Muertos holiday. These engaging activities are designed for families and children to explore and celebrate this significant tradition.
Starting September 16, 2024, CVCL will launch its Dia de los Muertos Coloring Contest. Entry forms and coloring supplies will be available for pickup at the library. The contest invites participants to use their creativity to reflect the spirit of the holiday.
Additionally, CVCL will offer four hands-on workshops, beginning on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the library’s Terracotta Room. These workshops will provide an in-depth look at the “Ofrenda” (offering), a central element of the Dia de los Muertos celebration and will allow participants to engage with the symbols and traditions associated with this meaningful holiday. The workshops are designed as an after-school program for families and students.
Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a cherished celebration in Mexico and other Latin American countries, honoring both life and death. It is a time when families come together to remember and celebrate loved ones who have passed away, transforming mourning into joy. The “Ofrenda” plays a pivotal role in this celebration, symbolizing the connection between the living and the deceased. In 2008, UNESCO recognized Dia de los Muertos as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, emphasizing its importance in preserving indigenous cultural traditions.
The Latino community is a significant and vibrant part of Camp Verde and the Verde Valley. “Celebrating diverse cultures strengthens our community and enriches our collective experience,” said Ms. Letty, the library’s bilingual outreach specialist.
Please visit Camp Verde Community Library’s website for the coloring contest details.
For more information or to register, please contact the Leticia Ancira at 928-554-8397 or visit our website at www.campverde.az.gov/cvcl.