Tlaquepacque, Sedona's arts and crafts village, celebrates Dia de los Muertos

This alter at Tlaquepaque in Sedona was one of two created at the arts and crafts village to honor loved ones who had died and invite them to come visit the living during Dia de los Muertos, "Day of the Dead."

Tlaquepaque, the 40-year-old popular arts and crafts village in Sedona, Arizona, celebrated a 3,000 year old ritual Saturday, October 29, the Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Costumed dogs and people strolled among the decorated fountains and candle-lit, flower-strewn alters laden with photos of loved ones who had gone beyond. Colorful intricately cut flags portraying skeletons enjoying living activities were strung above with twinkling lights while musicians in every nook and corner beckoned the shoppers and celebrants to stop and enjoy. The authentically recreated Mexican village with its maze of galleries, restaurants and shops, was a fitting venue for the ancient Aztec holiday welcoming those who have died to come visit the living, if only for a day.

Jewel, an English Bulldog, lit up the night  at Tlaquepacque's Dia de lost Muertos celebration.
She wowed the crowd with her Bee-utiful costume.