Coachella hosts 6th annual ‘Run with Los Muertos’

The City of Coachella hosted its 6th annual ‘Run with Los Muertos’ in Old Town Coachella on Saturday.

Participants say the event is a celebration in honor of ancestors and loved ones lost. “To me…it just means a lot about culture. We’ve been doing this for years. We basically remember our passed away family members and friends and this is our way to honor their memory,” said Cristobal Lucero, a runner in the 5K.

Locals set up altars with memories of loved ones, dressed in costume and participated in a colorful parade down Sixth street.

Many say today is their way of celebrating the lives of those who have passed away while also bringing the community together.

“I’m remembering my little brother that passed away…his name is Esteban Lucero. He passed away when he was born…and I’m dedicating this run to him,” said Lucero.

Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez was also in attendance: “It’s really amazing to see the growth of Dia de los Muertos in the City of Coachella and the rest of the United States,” said Mayor Hernandez.

Mayor Hernandez was also alongside the Mayor of Oaxaca, Mexico at the event: “More than anything we’re actually formalizing a partnership with Oaxaca, Mexico, to start to make the event even more authentic and bring in more authenticity that the people experience in Mexico to the City of Coachella. That’s why Mayor Oswaldo is here — our Presidente Municipal,” said Mayor Hernandez.

Music…dancing…art… entertainment and food vendors — the event was open to all. A portion of all funds raised benefitted RAICES Cultura — a local nonprofit working to bring cultural events to students and community members in the East Valley.

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