ATHENS – Athens Arts League in conjunction with its Dia de los Muertos Committee is bringing the celebration of this Mexican holiday to downtown Athens.

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, will be celebrated today through Saturday at High Cotton Arts, 103 W. Washington Street.

Originating in Mexico, Day of the Dead sets aside time to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away.

While its title might mean a day of mourning to some, it is a joyful celebration. Families create displays called ofrendas, with photos of the departed, their favorite foods and drinks, and marigold flowers.

Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

Here is the list of events:

• Today: Ofrenda opens for public viewing until 4 p.m. The public is welcome to place a photo of a deceased loved one on the ofrenda.
• Friday: Ofrenda open for viewing after 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Saturday: Day of the Dead, 3:30-6 p.m.
  1. Music performed by Grupo Sol. Marisol, 3:30-6 p.m.; Athens High School Choir, 4-4:20 p.m.
  2. Storytelling: “The day of the Dead” bilingual edition. Sessions are 3:45, 4:15, 4:45, and 5:15 p.m.
  3. “Coco” will be playing for the children.
  4. 3 p.m. Children’s Art & game area: Corn hole, Easels with paper, paints, brushes or markers supplied; coloring table with paper images of Catrina & Catrin and other related images, chalk drawing on road
  5. 3 p.m. Face painting by Lee Shepherd

Door Prizes: Mi Mexico Taqueria, four $50 gift certificates; Ana Roso Advanced Skin Care, $250 clinical facial; Alcauter’s Luxury Salon, $150 Hydration Hair Treatment; Miscellanea Party Store Pinata; La Fuenta food basket; Crawford’s Gifts ceramic vase; and Mozza food gift certificate.

Vendors: Mi Casa; Rocket City Poppers; Mozza Pizza.