UPDATE: Thousands gathered in Tucson, Arizona, on Sunday for the 36th Annual All Souls Procession, a powerful event honoring loved ones who have passed away. This vibrant celebration of life and memory attracted community members eager to process grief and share their stories through art and music.
The All Souls Procession, established in 1990 by local artist Susan Johnson and now managed by the non-profit Many Mouths One Stomach, took place the weekend after Día de los Muertos, reflecting a deep cultural connection to remembrance.
Attendees like Clarissa Gastelum paid poignant tributes, including to her son, Oscar Alexander Acedo, who tragically died on February 22, 2025, due to an accidental overdose. “It feels good to be here and to celebrate him, along with everyone else who has suffered losses,” Gastelum shared. “We’re making a donation to PACC in his name because he loved animals so much.”
Participants showcased creative expressions of remembrance, including elaborate ofrendas, face painting, and costumes. Rebecca Block and her family crafted a stunning Dala Horse ofrenda in honor of her late mother, Kerstin Block, founder of Buffalo Exchange. “It’s been a labor of love,” Block expressed, highlighting the emotional connection the event fosters.
Tanya Jones, the ASP Director of Face Painting, emphasized the therapeutic nature of art in processing loss. “When someone sits in my chair, I connect with them on a personal level,” Jones stated. “It’s relaxing and helps to honor those we’ve lost.”
During the procession, heartfelt messages and offerings were placed into “The Urn,” a symbolic gesture of closure and remembrance. As the parade moved from Speedway and Grande to the MSA Annex, the community united to send their thoughts and memories skyward in a beautiful display of solidarity.
This community-funded event, which attracts participants from diverse backgrounds, is not just a memorial; it’s a healing space for many. “Being surrounded by others who share the same love and grief is truly therapeutic,” Gastelum noted, underscoring the emotional weight of the gathering.
The All Souls Procession continues to serve as a vital outlet for collective mourning and celebration, fostering connections among those who seek to honor their loved ones. With thousands in attendance, the event stands as a testament to the enduring power of memory and the communal spirit of Tucson.
As the community reflects on the past, the All Souls Procession reminds everyone that those we’ve lost remain with us in spirit, united in love and memory.
