A Photographer’s Vibrant Journey Through Dia de los Muertos at Grandscape

Hello friends,

It’s Keekeh here, and I’ve just returned from a journey that’s imprinted vibrant hues and heartfelt traditions on my soul. I’m talking about the effervescent celebration of Dia de los Muertos at Grandscape in The Colony, Texas, which I had the joy of capturing through my lens on November 2, 2023.

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a time when the Mexican community honors their departed loved ones not with sorrow, but with a grand fiesta that’s as colorful as it is meaningful. This year, my adventure into the heart of this celebration began weeks before, as I learned how different regions start inviting their ancestors from mid-October, creating a tapestry of traditions that culminate on November 2.

From the decorating of altars with vivid Cempasúchil flowers and heartfelt ofrendas, to the making of tamales—a tradition of sharing—I was fortunate to witness and partake in these rich customs. A friend’s mother, a devout follower of this tradition, welcomed me into her home, offering a taste of the warmth and generosity that embodies this festival.

As the spirits of children and adults are believed to visit on successive days, November 1 and 2, the celebrations are filled with joyous eating, dancing, and the iconic dressing up as Catrinas and Catrins. The Grandscape celebration brought this to life spectacularly, with performances from an all-female Mariachi band and the Mexico 2000 Ballet Folklorico, whose dances and attire were as intricate as they were entrancing.

Capturing these moments, I felt the rhythm of the drums and the passion of the performers. One of my standout shots, which I’m entering into the PPC under Festive/Festivities, is of La Llorona in her black dress—a moment frozen in time that’s simply mesmerizing.

And let’s not forget Marcos Garrido, who, donning his authentic Mexican charro outfit, became the park’s sensation. His charm and the playful jest that he was a ‘real Mexican charro’ brought smiles and photos aplenty.

Grandscape truly outdid themselves, creating an atmosphere where food, drinks, and artisan crafts added to the revelry. As a photographer, capturing these moments felt like painting with my camera—each photo a stroke of cultural richness and exuberant life.

As I reflect on this experience, I’m inspired to host my own Dia de los Muertos celebration next year, to honor my ancestors and share this profound tradition with you all.

Until then, I invite you to delve deeper into the story of Dia de los Muertos. And come next year, join me at Grandscape—where the celebration will be twice as joyful and the memories just waiting to be captured.

With a story in every shot,
Keekeh