On Saturday, November 1, the West Seattle Junction Association (WSJA) successfully hosted a vibrant Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead celebration. The event, which ran from 11 AM to 2 PM, transformed the block along Fauntleroy Way into a colorful, festive space dedicated to music, art, remembrance, and local spirit.

The celebration was free and welcomed everyone in the community to walk the block, shop, create, and join in the celebration of life and remembrance. Attendees were immersed in the spirit of the day through traditional music, including a live Mariachi performance. Throughout the afternoon, people embraced the festive atmosphere by participating in calaveras (sugar skull) face painting.

At the heart of the commemoration was the community ofrenda (altar), which was hosted by Maris. While the celebration took place on November 1st, the ofrenda had actually begun at Maris on October 30th and remained available through November 2nd. Community members were invited to bring a photo, a small memento, or a note in memory of a loved one to contribute to the collective altar.

The WSJA noted that Day of the Dead is fundamentally a time to remember and celebrate, emphasizing that the event was not about mourning. Instead, the day was dedicated to storytelling, honoring ancestors, and connecting across generations. The Junction’s event successfully offered the community a space for reflection, art, and sharing while simultaneously engaging local businesses and community members.

Local Junction merchants played a major role, helping bring the celebration to life with themed offerings and interactive experiences.

• Maris not only hosted the crucial community ofrenda but also offered attendees the chance to create their own skull keychains and Day of the Dead magnets.

• For those seeking a physical challenge, Orange Theory Fitness hosted an “Afterlife Burn” 30-second rowing challenge. The studio also offered giveaways, swag, class vouchers, and set up a photo area.

• Club Pilates provided a double dose of activities: they offered the opportunity to “Color your own calaveras,” hosted the “Deadly Plank Challenge,” and included some magic circle fun.

• Bohemian Studios started the morning with themed Barre classes at 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM, followed by Vinyasa Yoga at 11:30 AM.

Sweet treats and reflection stations were also available along the way. Sound & Fog satisfied appetites by providing Mexican hot chocolate and Day of the Dead–themed treats. Spa Phoebe offered skull scratch masks, the chance to make one’s own bath salts using essential oils, and distributed free temporary Day of the Dead tattoos. Finally, City Sweats provided a Gratitude bowl where participants shared memories or notes of thanks, and those who participated were entered into a raffle for complimentary wellness services.

The event succeeded in bringing together art, community connection, and remembrance, ensuring that attendees walked away with a profound appreciation for the tradition of honoring ancestors.