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Downtown San Juan Cultural Arts District seeks EDC sponsorship for Dia de los Muertos festival
Summary
Mary Anne Ellman of the Downtown San Juan Cultural Arts District asked the EDC to sponsor the second annual Dia de los Muertos festival on Nov. 1, 2025, including a $2,500 sponsorship level for ofrendas; organizers described a public ofrenda, a 5K that will route through the basilica’s Stations of the Cross, and a headline concert by Aida Cuevas.
Mary Anne Ellman, representing the Downtown San Juan Cultural Arts District, asked the Samani Economic Development Corporation to sponsor the second annual Dia de los Muertos festival scheduled for Nov. 1, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Ellman said the festival will include a public ofrenda that organizers expect to double in size from last year to about 200 feet, a commemorative 5K that will travel through the Stations of the Cross at the basilica with Father Jorge’s participation, vendor booths and a headline performance by Mexican singer Aida Cuevas.
Ellman said the organizers have partnered with San Juan Housing for the 5K and are working with local schools and student organizations. She said a sponsorship package includes a $2,500 level that would fund an ofrenda installation and that multiple community groups—including Girl Scouts—are participating this year.
Board members asked about potential city participation and vendor support. One board member noted the festival’s potential to draw participation from neighboring cities in the Rio Grande Valley. The housing authority director, who identified himself as a member of the board, asked whether he should abstain from a vote because of his organization’s involvement; board members advised that abstention would be appropriate in case of a direct financial transaction between entities.
Transcript records a sponsorship request and discussion but do not show a formal board vote on the festival sponsorship during this meeting.
