Athens Arts League and the Dia De Los Muertos Committee joined forces to present a vibrant and festive celebration of the traditional Mexican holiday — Day of the Dead — at High Cotton Arts Saturday, Nov. 2.

Originating in Mexico, Dia de los Muertos has annually set aside time to honor and remember those loved ones who have passed away in a jubilee of colors and fun.

To coincide with the tradition of families creating displays called ofrendas — which showcases photos of the departed, their favorite foods or drinks and marigold flowers — High Cotton Arts carefully crafted an extravagant ofrenda for the public to utilize over the multi-day holiday.

The special celebration also featured musical performances from Grupo Sol. Marisol and the Athens High School Choir. To go along with the live entertainment, the event also allowed for bilingual storytelling sessions to fully embrace the exquisite culture of the holiday.

Younger attendees were also entertained in the children’s art and game area that featured a playing of the 2017 animated movie “Coco,” as well as arts and crafts for them to hone their creative skills.

The highlight of the event was also the face-painting that was provided by artist Lee Shepherd.

Along with all the spirited fun and games, local vendors like Mi Casa, Rocket City Popperz and Mozza Pizza, brought plenty of food for the large crowd of attendees to enjoy.

There was also a drawing for door prizes sponsored by local businesses at the event.