Albuquerque does a couple things right. We make delicious green chile stew, we have the highest percentage of parkland of any metro area in the country, and our Dia De Los Muertos parade is second to none.
The event is my favorite (sorry Balloon Fiesta) because it showcases the heart and soul of the city. People from all corners turn out for hours to watch as musicians, Aztec dancers, bike riders and lowriders, all with faces painted, make a long, slow procession through the South Valley neighborhood.
The day itself is a time to celebrate people we’ve lost, either recently or years back, and for me at least, signifies the true start of fall. It also reminds me that winter, and snow, are right around the corner.
Because this is Albuquerque, the biggest smallest city there ever was, you always run into people you know, and at the end of the parade everyone gathers in a local park to eat and catch up. By 5:30 pm it’s dark since the parade always falls on the same day as the time change.
It’s an event I look forward to all year, and one you need to see if you’re ever in town.
All Photos: Jakob Schiller/Element.ly