Forest Lawn Memorial-Parks & Mortuaries (Glendale) recently brought traditional Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) customs to life with in-person events across four of its southern California locations. The free, family-friendly events took place October 27 at Forest Lawn’s Cypress, Covina Hills and Glendale locations, and on November 2 at Forest Lawn-Cathedral City.

Community celebrations honored the memories of the dead while illuminating the rich history of the Mexican holiday. Highlights of the Día de los Muertos celebrations included folkloric dance and mariachi performances, Bob Baker Marionette performances (at Covina Hills, Cypress and Glendale locations), community ofrendas (altars) presentations, traditional Catrina and alebrijes (spirit animals) artwork, arts and crafts, face painting, refreshments, and food trucks and carts with delicious offerings.

This year marked the sixth appearance of 6-foot-tall Catrina sculptures, crafted by Forest Lawn’s floral designers. The skeletal women symbolize the return of departed loved ones and remind the living to be true to themselves and enjoy life. Each Catrina sculpture had its own personality, with distinct costumes and accessories inspired by the early 20th century, when Catrinas were first popularized by Jose Guadalupe Posada and Diego Rivera. Alebrijes accompanied the Catrina sculptures.

In other news, Forest Lawn held its 65th annual Veterans Day Celebration November 11. The in-person event was held outside the Hall of Liberty at Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills and honored members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Michael Ellington, a 36-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), served as master of ceremonies. Program highlights included a keynote speech by U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Charles Cook Jr.; a presidential proclamation by Alan Hamilton, LAPD deputy chief; music performances by the Los Angeles Police Concert Band; a military flyover by the Condor Squadron; an invocation and benediction by Monsignor Frank Hicks of St. Basil’s Catholic Church, Los Angeles; posting and retiring of the colors by the LAPD Honor Guard; an honor guard gun salute by the LAPD; and family-friendly activities and treats. forestlawn.com