Days of the Dead in Minnesota: These are your neighbors

Last updated on December 19th, 2023

I’m lucky to have traveled to so many wonderful places around the world, but some of the most beautiful and fascinating cultural experiences I’ve had have been right here in Minnesota.

There is a lot of ethnic diversity in Minnesota, including large Mexican, Kurdish, Somali, and Hmong communities. (It’s not all Fargo, Ole and Lena jokes, and Garrison Keillor.) All of these groups continue the spiritual and cultural practices of their ancestors. This close-to-home cultural mix means I don’t have to go very far to experience (and photograph) fascinating, vibrant, and beautiful celebrations.

Last year I was fortunate to have an opportunity to photograph the Aztec dance troop Kalpulli Ktzal Coatlicue as they participated in public and private festivities during the Days of the Dead.

day of the dead celebrations

Experiencing another culture without leaving home can offer the same (or better) photographic opportunities as traveling to another part of the world. It has the added benefit (or challenge, depending on your inclination) of forcing you to see another culture not as a tourist show or an exhibit in a living museum, but as a treasured part of the lives of your neighbors.

dancer at Day of the Dead

Friends celebrating the day of the dead

almost ready for Day of the Dead

getting ready to dance at Day of the Dead

dancer Days of the Dead

Celebrating the Day of the Dead in Minneapolis Minnesota - ExplorationVacation.net

young dancer Days of the Dead

day of the dead portrait

Celebrating the Day of the Dead

Celebrating the Day of the Dead

These are my neighbors.

Best wishes to all of you this year as you remember and celebrate.

stroller at Day of the Dead

 

A Private Celebration of the Days of the Dead in Minneapolis
A Public Celebration of the Days of the Dead in Minneapolis

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