FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: John Sallot 480-481-8101 [email protected] www.dbg.org Images available at: http://www.dbg.org/media-center/resources Dia de los Muertos Celebration The Garden is celebrating its 12th annual Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, with a variety of activities. Join us for this colorful tradition, celebrated throughout the American Southwest, Latin America and Mexico, that honors departed loved ones in a festival setting. To enhance your experience and understanding of the Día de los Muertos Celebration, the Garden is offering special additions to the festival: Exhibition of Ofrenda October 24 - November 2, 2014 / Webster Auditorium Exhibition hours correspond with all Dia de los Muertos events. Included with Garden Admission Ofrenda or Offering, in the traditional Mexican celebration of Día de los Muertos. A special spot in the home is customarily selected to put photographs, flowers, decorations, lit candles and the favorite food and drink of those who have passed away. This act of preparing an altar of offerings to the dead helps transform grief into acceptance. View original Ofrenda installations by local Arizona artists that have been created specifically for this exhibition. Cuisine and Culture Thursday / October 30, 2014 / 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Member: $55 / General Public: $69 Pre-registration required at dbg.org Join us for a delicious evening as we unveil the secrets and cultural traditions of Dia de los Muertos. This event features Zarco Guerrero, acclaimed multimedia artist and community art advocate, discussing the history and customs of the holiday, followed by a sit-down dinner catered by Rosita’s Place—called by reviewers the most authentic Mexican food in Phoenix. A folkloric dance presentation will conclude the event in grand style. Dia de los Muertos Celebration Saturday and Sunday / November 1-2, 2014 / 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Included with paid Garden admission. Free for members with current member ID card. Take part in entertainment that will bring the history of the holiday to life through song, dance and storytelling. Visit the Ofrenda exhibition constructed by local artists, try delicious food and pastries, and browse through beautiful art and jewelry for purchase in the Garden’s Mercado, all while enjoying the incredible atmosphere of the Garden. Afternoon Procession – La Procesión Sunday / November 2, 2014 / 5 p.m. Included with paid Garden admission. Free for members with current member ID card. Día de los Muertos festivities at the Garden conclude with La Procesión or Procession. La Procesión represents the ancient tradition of marching as a community to burial sites in order to honors those who have passed on. This year, La Procesión will feature new elements as well as the traditions of placing candles at the memorial triptych, honoring loved ones, and enjoying traditional music and dance. WHERE: Desert Botanical Garden 1201 North Galvin Parkway Phoenix, AZ 85008 COST: Garden Admission Rates Adults $22 (19-59) Seniors $20 (60+) Students with ID $12 (13-18) Children $10 (3-12) Garden members and children 3 years and younger are admitted free. INFO: For additional information call 480-941-1225 or visit www.dbg.org. A “Phoenix Point of Pride”, the Desert Botanical Garden is one of only a few botanical gardens accredited by the American Association of Museums. It is a privately funded, non-profit organization and depends on revenues from admissions and gift shop sales, as well as contributions from individuals and businesses to fund its programs of environmental education, plant conservation and research. ###