For Dia de Muertos, Cal State Northridge hosted ‘Barriletes’

Cal State Northridge hosted “Barriletes,'' an exhibition of giant traditional kites of the kind used in Guatemalan celebrations, in the University Library Monday afternoon.

To demonstrate how Guatemalans celebrate Day of the Dead, members of CSUN's Central American and Transborder Studies department invited Guatemalan artisans to create the kites. They all discussed the creation process and shared the kites' cultural and spiritual significance. 

“With a growing Central American student community at CSUN, it is essential for us to highlight and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that spans across the diverse nations of Central America,” said Yarma Velazquez, Chair of the Department of Central American and Transborder Studies. “Events like these not only foster pride in cultural identity but also allow students to see their traditions reflected and valued within the university setting.”

Department faculty collaborated with La Casas De La Cultura De Guatemala for the showcase. Attendees saw barriletes from Santiago Sacatepéquez, a town in Guatemala known for its tradition of kite making. Velazquez said the kites are only one of the many aspects of Guatemalan culture.

“Central America is a region of immense diversity, with each country offering unique traditions and cultural expressions,” Velazquez said. “Our goal is to provide students the space and opportunity to explore their identities, connect with their heritage, and gain a deeper understanding of how these cultural practices shape their sense of self and community.”