As the vibrant colors and melodies of Día de Los Muertos come to life in Old Town San Diego, another enchanting tradition takes center stage—the Catrina Contest. This captivating event, taking place on Saturday, October 28 at 6 pm in the Plaza de Las Armas of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, pays homage to La Calavera Catrina, an iconic symbol of the holiday. The Catrina Contest invites participants to embrace their creativity, dress up as Catrinas or Catrines, and be part of a vibrant parade that honors this cherished Mexican tradition.
La Calavera Catrina: A Symbol of Elegance
La Calavera Catrina, often referred to simply as Catrina, is an elegant and iconic figure that symbolizes the cycle of life and death. Originating from Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada’s famous engravings, Catrina is a reminder that death is an integral part of life. She is often depicted as a well-dressed and elegantly adorned skeleton, representing the idea that death is a natural and inescapable part of the human journey.
The Catrina Contest: A Celebration of Creativity
The Catrina Contest at Día de Los Muertos is a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and tradition. Participants from all walks of life, young and old, come together to transform themselves into Catrinas and Catrines. The process involves meticulous makeup, intricate costumes, and attention to detail, often taking inspiration from Mexican folklore, historical figures, or personal stories.
Categories and Prizes
Participants in the Catrina Contest compete in various categories, including “Best Traditional Catrina,” “Most Creative Catrina,” and “Best Group Catrinas.” The judging panel evaluates the participants based on their creativity, attention to detail, and overall presentation. Prizes are awarded to the winners, but the true reward is the pride of participating in a time-honored tradition.
A Symbolic Celebration
The Catrina Contest is more than just a costume competition; it’s a symbolic celebration of life and death. It reminds us that, during Día de Los Muertos, we embrace both the joy of the living and the memory of the departed. The elegant Catrinas and Catrines that grace the parade serve as a beautiful testament to the enduring legacy of this tradition.
Join the Elegance and Creativity
Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, the Catrina Contest at Día de Los Muertos in Old Town San Diego is a must-see event. It’s an opportunity to witness the artistry of the Catrinas and Catrines, to immerse yourself in Mexican culture, and to celebrate the beauty of life’s impermanence. Join us in this captivating tradition and be part of the elegance and creativity that defines Día de Los Muertos.
Hours – Saturday, October 28, 6pm
Phone – (619) 228-9340
Address – 4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110
Website – www.oldtownsandiego.org/event/dia-de-los-muertos-catrina-contest
