SMALL BITES: Mayfel’s

SKULLDUGGERY: Sugar skulls decorate an altar at last year’s Dia de los Muertos event at Mayfel’s. At this year’s party, members of the community can honor the memories of departed loved ones with an interactive Art Altar. Courtesy of Mayfel’s.

Those who want to keep that otherwordly spirit alive past Halloween can grab their votive candles and sugar skulls and head on down to the back courtyard at Mayfel's on Friday, Nov. 1, to celebrate Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. The celebration of the Mexican holiday marks the day the Louisiana-inspired downtown restaurant closes its outdoor courtyard bar for the winter season. (Mayfel's indoor restaurant is open year-round.)

Glo Babcock co-hosts the event and is collaborating with a number of local artists to create its interactive Art Altar installation that allows guests to remember the departed spirits of loved ones with votive candles and offerings of art and other meaningful items.

Babcock says guests appreciate the open environment of the celebration. “It’s always a sweet thing to have this space to honor someone who has gone on,” she says. She notes that since the first day of the two-day holiday is traditionally for children and animals, it can be a good way for youngsters to remember lost pets. People are welcome to leave their items on the altar or take them home when they leave the event.

The outdoor courtyard bar will reopen in April. — Gina Smith

The community Dia de los Muertos celebration starts at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1, in the back courtyard at Mayfel's, 22 College St. All ages are welcomed until 10 p.m.; after that, only ages 21 and older.

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