The Mingei International Museum‘s annual Day of the Dead altar will honor Mexican actor and singer Pedro Infante, known as “The Idol of Guamúchil” and an icon of the Golden Age of Mexican cinema.
Now in its tenth year, the altar honors a Mexican icon who has passed away with a month-long installation. This year’s altar, designed by Claudia Ramírez from Guadalajara, is located in a glass-enclosed niche opposite the museum’s entrance.
In his roles as carpenter, musician, singer, actor and aviator, Pedro Infante was the urban hero of the Mexican working class.
The celebration of the Day of the Dead is a commemoration of ancestral origin present in all cultures of Mexico. The festivity coincides with the end of the annual crop cycle when corn, pumpkins, fruit and flowers are harvested and used to prepare food and ornaments to be offered to the deceased. It is a celebration where families have the opportunity to thank and give recognition to their loved ones who have died.
The Mingei in Balboa Park is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.