Twelve-Year Parade Brings Day of the Dead to Jersey City Streets

The annual Parade of the Dead has been held for 12 years in Jersey City, New Jersey. The Riverview Farmers Market organizes the event each year. The procession fills the streets with traditional music and colorful costumes. Participants celebrate the Mexican holiday known as Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

The holiday honors people who have died. The tradition keeps their memories alive rather than focusing on grief. Families build ofrendas, which are altars decorated with photographs and personal items. They also place marigolds, called cempasúchil, on these displays. Belief holds that the flowers guide spirits back to visit the living.

The parade featured Catrinas and Catrines, which are elegant skeleton figures wearing elaborate outfits. These characters serve as iconic symbols of the holiday. Participants also entered a costume contest. The contest allowed attendees to display their creativity and cultural pride.

Organizers and participants describe the event as a way to bring families together. They use the celebration to share Mexican culture. The gathering allows the community to remember individuals who are no longer physically present. The parade has become a long-standing tradition in the local area.