The Sherman Heights Community Center is celebrating its 31st year of Día de los Muertos traditions in 2025, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to cultural heritage and community engagement. Each November, the center transforms into a vibrant hub filled with the scents of incense, pan de muerto, and fresh marigolds, attracting thousands of visitors from San Diego County and beyond.
Domingo Sandoval, a resident originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, introduced the celebration in 1994 with a few altars and marigolds. Since its inception, the event has expanded dramatically, evolving into a month-long series of activities that now features over 25 community altars and three weeks of programming. This year, the festivities kicked off on October 9 with the Noche de Mole, an evening dedicated to sharing traditional Mexican cuisine among friends and family.
Community Engagement and Cultural Significance
The Día de los Muertos celebration at the Sherman Heights Community Center is not only a cultural event but also a vital aspect of the community’s identity. Daniela Kelly, the executive director of the center, emphasized the importance of these traditions for residents who may not have the opportunity to return to their hometowns. “It’s an honor to be involved in the celebration…it’s also very important for the community to keep these traditions,” Kelly stated.
The culmination of the festivities will occur on November 2, the final day of Día de los Muertos, which will include a community procession. This holiday, which has roots tracing back at least 3,000 years to the Aztec and Olmec civilizations, honors deceased loved ones and emphasizes the enduring nature of cultural practices in the face of changing times.
Volunteerism plays a crucial role in the success of the event. Tens of volunteers dedicate their time each year, contributing to the various activities, from setting up altars to leading classes and facilitating face painting for children. “The joy, the spark of life, really comes when everyone is here, supporting one another and enjoying being in each other’s company,” Kelly noted.
Fostering Educational Opportunities for Youth
To ensure that younger generations are engaged with this rich cultural tradition, the community center prioritizes educational events throughout the month. On October 22, a day was dedicated specifically for youth participation. The center expects to welcome over 1,800 students for guided tours and activities designed to teach them about the significance of Día de los Muertos.
Kelly expressed pride in maintaining the original spirit of the celebration, stating, “We’re still keeping true to those initial ideas about how to celebrate Día de los Muertos in the Sherman way.” This commitment to community and tradition ensures that the celebration remains relevant and meaningful for all involved.
As Sherman Heights commemorates 31 years of Día de los Muertos, the event continues to be a testament to the power of cultural heritage in bringing communities together, fostering understanding, and celebrating the lives of those who have passed.
