Downtown Hemet honors loved ones for Día de los Muertos celebration on N. Harvard Street

Hemet's Mexican American families gathered for a meaningful celebration on N. Harvard Street on Friday, Nov. 1, as they honored their ancestors and loved ones who have passed away at the third annual Día de los Muertos event. The day was filled with remembrance, tradition, and community spirit.Families of all cultures and backgrounds learned about the traditions of Mexican American and Latino families living in their community. A community altar, called an ofrenda or "offering," was on display to welcome the spirits of the dead and to honor departed relatives of all families in the area. Orange marigold flowers, photos of those departed, and small tokens representing their favorite things, foods, and sweets surrounded the community ofrenda in remembrance.Sonia Lamas, founder