All Souls: A walk to remember the departed
Tens of thousands of people are expected to converge on downtown Tucson dressed in costumes and sugar skull make-up on Sunday for the 25th annual All Souls Procession.
The event started in 1990 as a single performance piece by local artist Susan Johnson who was grieving the passing of her father. Inspired by Mexico’s Dia de los Muertos holiday, Johnson felt she should honor her father with creativity and celebration. Over the years it has evolved into a community celebration in honor of departed loved ones.
Participants can bring bring a photo of a departed loved one to carry, pin to their costume, or to place in the giant urn that leads the procession. You can read about why others have chosen to walk, and share your own story, on the All Souls Procession Weekend Facebook page.
This year's procession will follow a two-mile route from Sixth Street and Sixth Avenue to the finale at Mercado San Agustin. The finale includes music, acrobats, and fire dancers as part of a celebration of life, and includes the burning the urn.
The Sun Link streetcar will run later into the night than usual Sunday, to help transport those who participate in the procession. Up to 100,000 people are expected to join in the event, organizers said.