Odessans will have several chances to celebrate Día de los Muertos in Odessa this year including several parades and a day of art at the Ellen Noël Art Museum.
An early event is scheduled through the Navarro Group, which contracted with the City of Odessa for $50,000 to plan Firecracker Fandango, the Día de los Muertos parade and festival and the Christmas Parade and Festival.
The Día de los Muertos event will not be on Nov. 1 or 2, which is traditional, but instead will be Oct. 19 and feature a parade and downtown festival. Mauricio Navarro, head of the Dallas-based Navarro Group, via phone said another parade was already scheduled on the traditional day and having the event early would also accommodate Mayor Javier Joven’s schedule. “He is running for re-election and we are trying to get ahead of the election for the mayor and all the other Día de los Muertos activities while also being respectful of the mayor’s schedule,” Navarro said.
He went on to say Joven had been “secret shopping” his group for two years before the City awarded a contract to the group to provide planning and execution of the three events. “He went to the Dallas and Houston parades and said he wanted us to do the same thing in Odessa.”
Joven is facing a challenger as he seeks a second term as mayor. Attorney Cal Hendrick is running for the seat. His campaign literature details he wants to prioritize public safety and first responders as well as provide competent, ethical leadership.
The Odessa agreement with the Navarro group and the City of Odessa requires:
- That the event not utilize the City of Odessa logo but agrees to use the image and name of Joven, even though City tax dollars are being used to help stage the event and the Odessa Police Department will provide security. The City must also have a full medical and emergency aid area for the duration of the event. Both of those items are listed in the agreement as “at no cost to the parade” but also have a second line indicating the parade is willing to reimburse the “host” at cost.
- That the parade must appoint Joven as the honorary grand marshal. It must also include a speaking role in the “official” press conference for Joven. The agreement also states it would be “preferable” if the press conference was hosted by Joven’s office.
The festival is 4-10 p.m. on Texas Avenue, between 7th and 2nd streets, and the parade is at 7 p.m. and will be televised live on CBS7.
Navarro said he is still seeking a presenting sponsor for the event. He said anyone can walk in the parade without charge and entrance to the festival portion is free.
He said non-profits wanting to feature either a float or other type of entry in the parade will pay $250, and small businesses will pay $750. Larger businesses will pay more for a parade entry possibly as much at $1,500. Vendor spots for the downtown festival, Navarro said, will include arts and crafts, and food. Registration for a vendor will be $200 to $600, depending on the type of vendor. Navarro said he hopes to have 30 to 40 vendors. He said he is excited about a ballet folklorico group making an appearance and also a mariachi group at Odessa’s event.
Learn more about the Odessa event on Oct. 19 at ddlmusa.com
MORE ON DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
Día de los Muertos is a traditional celebration in honor of the deceased that is observed in Mexico and other parts of Latin America on Nov. 1 and 2. Other Odessa events scheduled include:
- The other scheduled Día de los Muertos parade hosted locally is scheduled 6 p.m. Nov. 2 and starts at 17th and Texas and ends on 9th St. Awards will be at the Buyers 2B Arena, 2214 E. Murphy St. A face-painting table will be set up at the starting point. Call 770-9423 for more information.
- Celebrate at the Ellen Noël Art Museum from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 2 at 4909 E. University Blvd. Call 550-9696 for more information.
This special event is dedicated to honoring the rich customs and traditions of this beloved Mexican holiday. Families and individuals of all ages are welcome to participate in a variety of free art activities designed to engage and delight children. These activities will provide a fun and educational way for kids to connect with the cultural significance of Día de los Muertos through creativity and hands-on experience.
One of the highlights of the event will be the opportunity to meet Guadalupe Hernandez, the talented artist behind the museum’s current exhibit, “Con Cariño.” This exhibit captures the essence of Mexican culture and heritage, showcasing Hernandez’s deep appreciation for his roots. Attendees will have the chance to hear directly from Hernandez during an exclusive art talk, where he will share insights into his work and the inspiration behind his stunning pieces.
In addition to the art activities and artist meet-and-greet, the event will feature live music and performances that promise to enchant and entertain guests. These performances will further immerse attendees in the vibrant atmosphere of Día de los Muertos, providing a memorable experience for all who attend.
