MARYSVILLE – Death is often associated in the U.S. with the color black.

But not at the Day of the Dead event at Quil Ceda Elementary School last Friday – it was a bright and colorful affair.

In Mexico, the annual event Nov. 1 not only honors those who have died, but it also celebrates their heritage, Principal Joan Robertson-Landi said.

First-grade teacher Xochitl Palacios again organized the event, along with Pricilla Smith and others with the PTA. Student Adrian Rodriguez looked like he had two black eyes, but so did many of the other boys and girls, 14 of whom performed the Mexican Hat Dance and a song from the animated movie “Coco.” They painted their faces to look like skeletons with the belief that the living and the dead intermingle. The boys wore serapes and cowboy hats, while the girls wore colorful dresses.

Those in attendance at the evening event enjoyed traditional Mexican drinks and food, including breads and cookies, chips and enchiladas.

The first grade boys and girls form circles while dancing.

Boys line up in a row waiting for their partners.

Couples hold each others hands waiting for the music to start.

Adrian Rodriguez gets his face painted.

Angelise Cox and Kaiya Green sit with family as they eat dinner.

Penny Perillo dances in front of Day of the Dead sign.

A Day of the Dead memorial at the event.

Adults smile as the watch the young dancers.

Students were encouraged to grab an adult to dance with.

At one of the booths people could make flowers out of colorful tissue.

Kids made various arts and crafts at the booths.

Xochitl Palacios, left, waits in the line for face painting; at right is another craft booth.

Visitors to the event enjoyed a Mexican feast.