Easter Seals Central Texas Presents 2nd Annual DIA DE LOS MUERTOS Festival Today

Easter Seals Central Texas presents its second annual Dia de los Muertos ('Day of the Dead') Festival, today, October 25, 2014 from Noon - 11:00 pm at the Oswaldo A.B. Cantu/Pan American Recreation Center, 2100 East 3rd Street, Austin. Following the festival's stellar success last year, the celebration returns with a full day of Dia de los Muertos activities for the entire family, featuring a celebrity line-up of live music. Proceeds will benefit Easter Seals Central Texas' mission of promoting independence and creating opportunities for people with disabilities.

The festival is an exciting whirlwind of Dia de los Muertos activities including live music, cultural performances, vendors, food and drink. The community (individuals or groups) is invited to participate in a special tradition of the holiday with a 'build your own altar' contest at the Festival with awards presented on site.

Children 12 and under can play in a free, safe and fun 'Kid's Zone' sponsored by H-E-B. Children will be inspired to learn and explore Dia de los Muertos music, arts and culture including face-painting, mask-making and a piñata party.

The highlight of the festival is an eclectic combination of vibrant, rhythmic sounds of Latin music featuring headliner A.B. Quintanilla & Kumbia Kings All Starz.

Music and performer additions to the line-up feature local and out of town artists including Quimikoz del Son, Son de Rey, Lesly Reynaga, Bidi Bidi Banda, Tiarra Girls, Roy Lozano's Ballet Folklórico de Texas and Mariachi Nueva Generacion. Everyone will be able to join in a special parade led by Grupo de Danza Mexica-chichimeca de Austin, Austin Samba School and Las Monas.

The event benefits Easter Seals Central Texas, which has served the community for over 75 years. Tod Marvin, President and CEO says, "We were thrilled with the success of last year's event. It was exciting to see Austin embrace a fun, family-friendly celebration of music, food and culture in such a big way! And an event where every penny supports a great mission of helping people with disabilities live independently. Pairing live music with the observance of Dia de Los Muertos truly reflects Austin's cultural diversity and our 'unique' personality. We are privileged to be a part of this celebration of life."

Tickets may purchased online at austindiadelosmuertos.com. General admission tickets purchased in advance are $15.00 and admission is free for children under 12 who attend with a ticket-holding adult. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $20.00. For more information on the Dia de los Muertos Festival, Easter Seals Central Texas or to purchase event tickets, visit austindiadelosmuertos.com.

About Easter Seals Central Texas: Since 1937, Easter Seals Central Texas (ESCT) has been a leading provider of patient-centered services and support for children and adults with disabilities, their families and caregivers. We are a locally funded and locally governed non-profit organization based in Austin and currently serving 8,500 clients in 22 Central Texas counties. We envision every person having equal access and opportunities in their community. Together, we create opportunities and promote independence for people with disabilities to pursue their hopes and dreams. For more information about Easter Seals Central Texas, visit www.easterseals.com/centraltx.