N.C. Museum of Art plans virtual family day to mark All Saints Day

The N.C. Museum of Art will host a virtual family day next month with an international theme. The museum, in collaboration with the Consulate of Guatemala in Raleigh, will host a free Day of Guatemala celebration on All Saints Day, which is Sunday, Nov. 1. In Guatemalan culture, the day celebrates life by remembering those who have died.

During the virtual family day, participants can watch live-streamed performances and take part in a package of digital activities. The event also includes the creation of a traditional giant kite, called an Esperanza Kite or Kite of Hope, that will be on view outside in the Museum Park.

“We are so grateful for our continued partnership with the Consulate of Guatemala and are excited to bring this collaboration to families across our state through virtual activities at home,” said Museum Director Valerie Hillings in a press release. “The Esperanza Kite that will also be on view in the Museum Park will acknowledge personal and communal losses while celebrating a vital cultural tradition that underscores the power and uplift of community.”

“The Esperanza Kite was built to recognize the invaluable contribution in arts and traditions of the Guatemalan indigenous community, the sacrifice of all immigrants, and the beauty they bring to this precious country,” said España in the release. “The kite is a messenger of hope during this pandemic. Humanity will survive, and our generation will be part of the improvement of this world.”