La Placita, in partnership with Hudson Valley Latino Business Commerce (HVLBC), will host a free Día de los Muertos Festival on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to midnight at 278 S William Street, Newburgh, NY 12550. We expect approximately 100 residents, including children and families.

Building on celebrations held in 2024 and 2025, this annual gathering brings neighbors together to honor loved ones, celebrate Mexican and Latino traditions, and help children connect with their cultural heritage. Families will enjoy piñata activities, a Catrina contest, trunk-or-treat, and planned performances in a welcoming community setting.

Our goal is to make cultural participation accessible to families without an admission charge while bringing people of different backgrounds together. La Placita and HVLBC will promote the event through bilingual flyers, community networks, and social media.

Following Naomi Hersson-Ringskog's invitation and Janet Rossbach's October 23 award notification, we are submitting this proposal to formally document the $500 Honorable Mention grant approved by Awesome Newburgh. The grant will provide $300 for candy and treats and $200 toward cultural decorations, helping create a festive experience for local children and families.