Winchester was alive with cultural vibrancy on the evening of November 1, 2024, as the community celebrated its inaugural Dia De Los Muertos Festival at Legacy Grove Park. Presented by Legacy Grove and Community First Insurance, this event honored Hispanic heritage, drawing attendees from Winchester and surrounding areas.
The festival ran from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and marked a significant moment for the local Hispanic community, coinciding with the traditional Mexican holiday dedicated to honoring deceased loved ones. Anna Campomanes, Event and Marketing Coordinator for Legacy Greenscapes, expressed her delight about the outcome, stating, “I think it went so well. We had so much fun. It was something totally different from what we usually do.” She indicated excitement for future events, confirming plans to hold the festival again next year.
Featuring a variety of performances, attendees enjoyed traditional dances representing different regions of Mexico. According to Campomanes, a local folk dancing group showcased four unique dances, captivating the crowd. “We don’t have many dancing programs at Legacy Grove, so that was something that was really special,” she remarked.
Local artists also contributed to the rich tapestry of the festival. Diana Reyes and Danielle Noonan, associated with Side Quest Productions, engaged festival-goers by sharing insights about the history and significance of the Day of the Dead. Noonan donned a striking monarch butterfly outfit complemented by dramatic skull face paint, adding to the festival’s festive atmosphere.
Numerous vendors enriched the experience, offering a variety of Mexican goods and Hispanic foods. Campomanes emphasized the importance of representation, noting the participation of organizations such as the Clark County Public Library. She remarked, “We had vendors who sold Mexican goods. I think that was really important…to have lots of representation.”
Reyes, who played a pivotal role in organizing the festival, highlighted the event’s success in attracting a diverse crowd. “We had a beautiful crowd of people that haven’t usually come to Legacy Nights,” Campomanes shared. She pointed to the event as a vital step in fostering inclusivity within the community, reflecting on the growth of Winchester’s Hispanic population.
“It’s important when we’re creating a community space that it’s for everyone in the community,” Campomanes stated. The festival provided not only entertainment but also a means to build bridges among different cultures, enhanced by the pleasant evening ambiance lit by streetlights. She hopes that more events, especially those held at night, will promote this inclusivity and highlight the community’s rich cultural diversity.
