Jackie Andes Day Of the DeadOn November 1, 2015, the 2nd annual Day of the Dead Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at aVita boutique in the Raven’s Nest in Ajo, AZ. This event is a fun, participatory experience for the entire family.
The Festival will include live music, folkloric dancing, traditional food, hands-on crafts, face painting and arts and craft vendors. An altar, created by the Ajo Council of the Fine Arts, will be available to bring offerings to honor your ancestors. Topping the altar will be a large skeleton created by local artist Mari Kaestle of the Muppets/Miss Piggy fame. The skeleton will be raffled, and tickets will be sold through October and at the festival.
Purchase your first festival T-shirt designed with the art of Jacqueline Andes of Desert Willow Studio. Enjoy all of the traditional food and refresh at the beer garden sponsored by the American Citizens Social Club (Chu Chu Club). Children’s craft tables, like sugar skull decorating, and face painting will help children relish the day too. Our Ajo students will create the large decorative Guatemalan kites that will be flown to commemorate the Day of the Dead, Dia de los Muertos, ritual that has been practiced at least 3,000 years.
The Day of the Dead Festival is a true community event bringing together, individuals, families, groups, and students. Join the celebration and experience the rich visual, musical, dance and culinary traditions of this holiday that is celebrated in Mexico and part of Central and South America.
aVita boutique is located at 801 N. 2nd Ave. Look for the raven!

Original art by Jackie Andes that will appear on the 2015 Day of the Dead T-shirts.

Photo of a section of the mural painted on the front of the building at aVita Boutique in the Raven’s Nest.