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4 Detroit Day of the Dead events in the metropolis that combine tradition and food

4 Detroit Day of the Dead events in the metropolis that combine tradition and food
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This Friday and Saturday is Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, a tradition dedicated to remembering those who have died — and several stores and restaurants in the Detroit area will be marking the day with events.

“In Mexico, Día de los Muertos is an extremely meaningful tradition that involves everyone from schoolchildren to entire cities,” said Leslie Vargas, director of operations at La Jalisciense, in a press release. “While we value our lives in Detroit, we miss our roots, and this festival is our way of reconnecting with those traditions.”

Vargas added that this tradition is a way to showcase culture and educate others and “new generations of Latinos growing up here about our heritage.”

More: What's happening near you on Dia de los Muertos? You can celebrate here

Over the two days, the tradition celebrates life and death and offerings are intended to “encourage visitors from the land of the dead as the departed souls hear their prayers, smell their food and take part in the festivities,” according to dayofthedead.holiday.

The holiday involves the setting up of an “ofrenda” in homes, churches and businesses by living relatives and loved ones. These ofrendas are colorful altars that celebrate and honor the deceased.

Photos and personal items of the deceased are often placed between candles, as are food items such as bread. The often complex altars honoring the deceased are decorated with flowers and bright colors.

Here's what several Detroit-area businesses are doing to celebrate Day of the Dead.

La Jalisciense Supermercado & Taqueria

For the second year, this Mexican grocery store and taqueria in southwest Detroit is hosting a Dia de Los Muertos festival. This year the La Jalisciense festival lasts four days and takes place from Thursday to Sunday. Activities include live “interactive cemetery” performances, Catrina competitions, and art and music workshops. La Jalisciense's ofrenda is also set up and people can bring photos of their loved ones. For more than a decade, La Jalisciense Restaurant has offered authentic Mexican cuisine as well as a selection of market staples and unique imports.

Tickets for the events are $4-$40 on eventbrite.com.

La Jalisciense, 3923 Vernor Highway, Detroit.

Imperial

From noon to midnight Saturday, Imperial in Ferndale will host its 13th annual eventTh Annual celebration of Día de los Muertos with special food and drinks as well as the regular menu. On Woodward Avenue, Imperial also has a community altar, or ofrenda, where guests can place photos or mementos of their loved ones. Votive candles and flowers are available for a small donation. Proceeds benefit Gilda's Club. Imperial doubles donations.

Dishes include shrimp aguachile served with fresh tomatillo salsa, chorizo ​​and potato molotes with a rich poblano mole, and fried pork belly tacos drizzled with savory chili jam. Vegan and vegetarian options will also be available.

The event, sponsored by Espolón Tequila, features the La Calavera cocktail, which combines Espolón Reposado with Cointreau, blood orange, lime and a hint of clove agave. Also featured is the Flor de Muerte with Montelobos Mezcal, dry Curaçao, marigold and lime. Imperial will also offer non-alcoholic options.

22828 Woodward Ave, Ferndale; imperialferndale.com

Prince Valley Market

At Prince Valley Market on Michigan Avenue in southwest Detroit, the store's annual sales event is back and bigger than last year. Since last week, customers have been asked to leave pictures, notes and other items.

The longtime grocery store and market in southwest Detroit is known for its selection of grab-and-go meals, homemade tamales, store-made guacamole, pico de gallo and custom-made cakes.

Prince Valley Market, 5931 Michigan Ave., Detroit; Princevalleymarket.com

Festival at Valade Park

A Día de los Muertos celebration will be held Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Robert C. Valade Park, 2670 Atwater, on Detroit's riverfront.

The family-friendly event includes food trucks, live music, a performance by Ballet Folklorico De Detroit, vendors and children's activities. Entry is free. For more information, visit detroitriverfront.org.

Contact Detroit Free Press food and restaurant writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news and tips to: [email protected]. Follow @SusanMariecooks on Twitter. Subscribe to the Free Press.

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