El Dia de los Muertos / the Day of the Dead is one of my favorite holidays, a Central American tradition where families honor their dead through ritual meals, blessings, cemetary visits, and lots of skull-shaped treats and iconography. So I'm excited to report that the Smithsonian-sponsored Virtual Latino Museum, in partnership with Virtual Native Lands will be hosting a series of Dia de los Muertos-related events from October 30 to November 2 in Second Life.
Among the many highlights:
An interview and featured concert by award-winning Mexican singer Lila Downs on November 1 and 2
- A cemetery procession in the Placita that takes participants through a virtual Spirits Path
- “Building your own altar” activities
- An All Souls Film Festival
- a 3-D Crystal Skull Dance Party
I love that the Smithsonian is involving the Virtual Native Lands folks, which is a great way to tap into existing Second Life resident culture while also bringing in Smithsonian content and connections. I chatted with Nany Kayo of Native Lands, who informed me that several native peoples celebrate Day of the Dead and similar holidays, including the Choctaws and Chickasaws and Muscogees.
For more info on the Second Life Day of the Dead activities, see the Smithsonian Latino Center website. And starting on October 30, teleport over to the Virtual Latino Museum and the Native Lands sim to participate in the many activities planned!
UPDATED 10/29/09: The Latino Virtual Museum sim is now open. Here are some pics of the lovely sim.
