Texarkana, Texas – The nonprofit Semillas del Futuro Foundation is bringing the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos to Spring Lake Park this Saturday. The festival, the second annual local celebration and the first under the foundation’s sponsorship, runs from noon until 8 p.m. at 4303 N. Park Road.
Celebrating heritage and community
Foundation president Thalia Rojas explained that the event is more than a party; it is a chance to honor loved ones who have passed and to share Mexican and South American culture with the broader Texarkana community. “We are celebrating and embracing our culture. It’s a celebration in Mexico and South America, where we remember our loved ones, and we’re trying to keep that tradition alive, especially now that we are far away from our cultures,” Rojas said.
Vice president Alaina Hernandez added that the festival aims to bring together people of all backgrounds. “Here in Texarkana, it’s important because, first, we want the culture and tradition to remain alive. The second reason is so that the community, not just the Hispanic community, but everyone, can learn about the culture of our country,” she said.
Festival highlights
Attendees can expect a full day of family‑friendly activities, including live musical performances, traditional Mexican food vendors, a Catrina costume contest, and dance showcases featuring local talent. The event will also provide an opportunity for families to learn about the altars (ofrendas) that are central to Día de los Muertos, which are decorated with marigold flowers, candles and favorite foods of the departed.
Safety and coordination
Organizers emphasized that they have coordinated closely with local law‑enforcement to ensure a safe environment for all participants. Hernandez noted that the foundation has taken “due diligence” to address any concerns related to immigration enforcement and overall public safety.
“We have a great community that is always willing to help when needed, and we are excited about that,” Hernandez said.
Why the tradition matters
Día de los Muertos, observed on November 1 and 2, is a time when families build altars in their homes, placing photos of deceased relatives and pets, along with items and foods the loved ones enjoyed in life. The celebration underscores the importance of remembering family heritage and passing cultural values to future generations.
The festival offers Texarkana residents a chance to experience these customs firsthand, fostering greater understanding and respect among the city’s diverse population.
Plan your visit
The festival is free to the public. Parking is available on site, and families are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full schedule of performances and activities. For more information, visit the Semillas del Futuro Foundation’s website or follow their social‑media channels.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
