What is Día de los Muertos, and why is the Day of the Dead a beautiful celebration of life, family, and remembrance? Discover the meaning behind this cherished cultural tradition, its ancient Mesoamerican roots, and how families honor loved ones who have passed away through colorful altars, photographs, marigolds, candles, and favorite foods.

On 2 Plus You Nevada, host Sarah Johns welcomes Ovaldo Jimenez-Estupinan, Director of Hispanic/Latinx Community Relations at the University of Nevada, Reno, and Dr. Jafeth Sanchez, Executive Director of the Latino Research Center, to explore the history, cultural significance, and traditions of Día de los Muertos.

Learn how ofrendas (altars) celebrate the memories of loved ones, why Día de los Muertos is about honoring life rather than fearing death, and how families from different cultural backgrounds can respectfully participate. Plus, discover the University of Nevada, Reno's family-friendly Día de los Muertos celebration featuring traditional dance performances, cultural activities, and opportunities to connect with the community.

🚨 Segment Highlights:

🌼 Día de los Muertos: History & Meaning

• Ancient Mesoamerican roots and Aztec traditions

• Honoring loved ones through remembrance and celebration

• Understanding the spiritual symbolism of returning ancestors

🕯️ Traditional Ofrendas & Altars

• The meaning behind multi-level Día de los Muertos altars

• Marigolds, candles, photographs, and favorite foods

• Keeping the memories and legacies of loved ones alive

❤️ Celebrating Life, Family & Remembrance

• Why conversations about death can honor family legacies

• Remembering relatives, friends, and beloved pets

• Connecting generations through meaningful traditions

🤝 Cultural Appreciation & Community

• How Día de los Muertos brings families together

• Exploring traditions across different cultural backgrounds

• Celebrating respectfully while learning about cultural heritage

🎭 UNR Día de los Muertos Celebration

• Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 2–5 PM

• Joe Crowley Student Union Ballrooms at UNR

• Traditional Aztec dancers and folklórico performances

🎨 Free Family-Friendly Activities

• Sugar skull painting and face painting

• Cultural learning experiences for children and adults

• Free activities and weekend campus parking

🌐 Learn More About Día de los Muertos at UNR:

🌼 University of Nevada, Reno Día de los Muertos Celebration

📅 Sunday, October 25, 2026

🕑 2–5 PM

📍 Joe Crowley Student Union Ballrooms

University of Nevada, Reno

Enjoy traditional performances, cultural activities, sugar skull painting, face painting, and family-friendly opportunities to learn about Día de los Muertos.

🎟️ Free community event and activities.

🌐 University of Nevada, Reno:

https://www.unr.edu/

Día de los Muertos is traditionally observed November 1–2, providing an opportunity for families to remember, honor, and celebrate loved ones who have passed away.

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