IN PICTURES: DAY OF THE DEAD CELEBRATION IN ISLAMORADA

a group of women with face paint posing for a picture
Toni Bennett, from left, Jul Jankowski and Gabriela Tejeda react after the group Mariachi Veracruzano performs a song for specifically them during a Day of the Dead event in the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District and Florida Keys Brewing Company Sunday, November 3, 2024. The event sponsored by Community Arts and Culture featured sugar skull decorating, face painting and live music. Photo by Doug Finger

Miami-based nonprofit Community Arts and Culture (CAC) presented its Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration at the Florida Keys Brewing Company in Islamorada on Nov. 3. The free, family-friendly event featured live music by Fabi World and Mariachi Veracruz Miami, as well as face painting, and a sugar skull-making workshop. 

The Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday traditionally celebrated on Nov. 1-2. The gathering among friends and family pay respects to loved ones who died, welcoming back their souls for a brief reunion over food, drink and celebration.

Mexican musician and composer Fabi Patiño fronts his world beat and rootsy groove trio that also features Nay Roze on violin and vocals, and Gilma Espina on percussion and vocals. Originally from Oaxaca Mexico, Fabi has become an ambassador of the Miami music legacy across the globe.

Mariachis play the traditional music of Mexico, always in full dress and with much gusto. Mariachi Veracruz Miami brings joy and passion to every performance and are highly in demand on the South Florida music circuit.

The event was supported by the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, FKBC, and the Morada Way Arts and Culture district. For more information, visit CACMiami.org.