Although many students are looking forward to Halloween festivities throughout the upcoming week, others have different celebrations in mind.

The University Board and the Latin American Student Organization will be hosting the “Dia de los Muertos Celebrations” from 6 p.m. until
8 p.m. Thursday at the Cultural Center, 600 E. Lincoln Ave.  The event is free and open to the public.

Jessica Ashley, UB cultural arts coordinator, said the two organizations will provide attendees with popular activities that go along with the culture of the event.

“For the Day of the Dead event, we are doing traditional sugar skull decorating and food and drinks typically known with this holiday, as well as mask painting, and an altar where people can bring and place items in memory of their loved ones,” Ashley said.

Both UB and LASO are working on making the Dia de los Muertos celebration more realistic to what one might experience in Mexico.

“This year’s event is focusing on incorporating more of the traditional aspects of the holiday, so that we can share as much of an authentic experience with others,” Ashley said.

Ashley also said UB is working towards making the celebration something that will become tradition.

“This will be the second year cultural Arts has done the Day of the Dead event,” she said. “We hope to make this into an annual event.”

Ashley said working in coordination with LASO has helped make the event more traditional for the culture.

“Working with LASO has been a great experience for me,” she said.  “I love learning about different cultures and traditions so with this event and partnership, I have been able to indulge my curiosity as well as broaden my knowledge of another culture.”

Ashley said she encourages students to participate in events, which differ from their culture because it provides them with a new understanding.

“Students should attend this event because it will be a fun way to get involved and experience another culture and its traditions,” she said.

Samantha Middendorf can be reached at 581-2812 or semiddendorf@eiu.edu