The 9th annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Festival, which celebrates the memory of deceased loved ones and attracts crowds upwards of 10,000 people, is coming this Sunday.

The family-friendly party goes from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6 at the St. Mary’s Basilica Outdoor Plaza, 231 N. 3rd St., Phoenix. Admission is free, but festivalgoers are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation to benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank.

Experience the art of life, faith and remembrance with catrinas, mariachi, ballet folklorico, a local artisan market, free kids’ activities, a lowrider/classic car show, and ofrendas (altars that honor the memory of ancestors). There will also be food trucks and live entertainment with Carmela y Más, and special music guest DannyLux, named one of Billboard’s “Latin Artists to Watch,” at 6 p.m.

Local artists will create community ofrendas on which the public is welcome to place 5x7 photos (copies, not originals) of deceased loved ones. Complimentary paper frames will be provided, and devotional candles to set on the altars will be available for purchase.

Also, PepsiCo Foundation is donating $500,000 to the Maricopa County Community College District to help fund local education opportunities. The donation will reach students enrolled in the Chandler-Gilbert, Estrella Mountain, GateWay, Glendale, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Rio Salado, Scottsdale and South Mountain campuses.

Click here, call 602-412-7228 or email ribodalromero@gmail.com for information.