festival

Many people go all queasy at the thought of Day of the Dead. Decorate graves? Have a picnic among them? Are you nuts? But some of these traditions, like "dinner on the ground" gatherings in country church cemeteries, are still in practice. Call it Celtic New Year, co-opt it and call it All Saints or take it back and call it Day of the Dead, it's still a time of remembering.

South Street is throwing what's basically a Halloween costume parade, starting at Fifth and South streets. This year's theme is Voodoo Vampire, and in a tribute to New Orleans, revelers will cavort down to Second Street to the sounds of a second-line brass band. But make sure to peek in at Eye's Gallery (402 South St.) to see plenty of lively, often irreverent artisanal tributes to the holiday.

The closest approximation of a Mexican Day of the Dead celebration will surely be at the Houston Community Center at Eighth and Snyder streets. The community display of ofrendas will open with the Ollin Yoliztli Calmecac Aztec dancers (pictured) to solemnize the proceedings. In Mexico, it's common to see people who are far from their loved ones' mortal remains create beautiful remote offerings. Images of the loved ones are essential, as are marigolds. Special bread and sugar skulls, chocolate, fruit, corn and smoldering copal resin can be worked into the display, while candles are placed amid all the treats (foods and beverages, even smokes that the person enjoyed). Friends and family stop by for a visit and enjoy the essence of the altar — and you can have the rest. Last year the center's offerings had a piquant social consciousness.

Wheaton Village is again having a huge celebration involving South Jersey's large Mexican community, with a folk dance troupe, a folk concert and a banda/conjunto dance with local bands. And don't miss the handicrafts, altares and stands selling some of the best tacos ever, if last year is any indication.

South Street Parade, Sun., Oct. 30, 3 p.m. (followed by concert, 4-9 p.m.), starting at Fifth and South sts.; Ritual Tribute to the Dead, opening event Sun., Oct. 30, 1-9 p.m. (events through Nov. 6), Houston Community Center, 2029 S. Eighth St., 215-729-4415; Day of the Dead celebration, Sun., Oct. 30, 2:30-7 p.m., Wheaton Village, 1501 Glasstown Rd., Millville, N.J., 800-998-4552.