Day of the Dead pretty lively in Lincoln
With a community full of artists, the special effects and costumes are sure to dazzle
- Face painting always is a favorite
The fourth annual Dia de Los Muertos celebration comes to the historic settlement of Lincoln, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 28, with traditional costumes and music.
Admission is free for the full range of fun events planned through the d. Family activities include mask decorating, paper flower making and face painting by popular artists, along with displays of “ofrendas” (altars) and live music. The free events will occur throughout the community of Lincoln. A schedule of events will be posted at various merchants’ locations.
A raffle featuring prizes from local artists and merchants will be conducted. Raffle tickets are available at participating merchants for $5. A person doesn’t have to present to win.
Entertainment will feature “La Ultima,” a New Mexico Spanish music trio from Carrizozo; “Mariachi Unido” from Carlsbad; and “Los Galleros Mariachi Band” from Lubbock, Texas. The musicians will be performing the entire day throughout Lincoln.
Featured speaker is Dr. Cynthia Orozco, who will build an “ofrenda” (altar), for Juan Patron, the most prominent Hispanic in Lincoln, while discussing the history of the observance by indigenous people of Mexico, Europe and the United States. Dr. Orozco has taught history and humanities at Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso for 20 years.
The story of Dia de Los Muertos, which is Day of the Dead observed the world over, is celebrated in many ways, including the decoration of cemeteries and the building of “ofrendas” (altars), to the deceased, decorated with flowers, food offerings, photos and mementos. The celebration expresses the idea that death is not to be feared, but embraced as a part of life. Communities and families await the return of lost loved ones with food, music and fun.
Local eateries will provide food and drink specials.
Organizers urged locals and visitors to bring friends and family to the settlement of Lincoln for a fun-filled and historical day. Lincoln is 12 miles east of Capitan, on U.S. 380, called Calle la Placita in the community.