Dia de los Muertos celebrated early at Sanger park

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Families are celebrating Dia de los Muertos all month long thanks to many events held by local Sanger community groups.

Saturday afternoon, families gathered at Brehler Park to take part in traditional face painting, dancing and a costume contest. It was the fifth event in a series of workshops for people to learn about the significance of the holiday.

It concludes with a veteran's parade and an evening fundraiser for the arts held by the Sanger Women's club next weekend.

"We partner with the Sanger Women's Club in their efforts to promote the arts promote culture promote understanding and clear understanding of our cultures with Dia de los Muertos being an integral part of the Latino community," Diana Rodriquez with the group said.

Historically, Dia de los Muertos is celebrated to honor and remember loved ones who passed away. The events held throughout October were made possibly by the James Irvine Foundation and Arte Americas.