An annual celebration of the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos was held at El Centro Del Pueblo in Echo Park this past weekend. Although the holiday is called the "Day of the Dead," it is by no means meant to be frightening nor somber -- instead, people gather to celebrate the lives of those who have passed on through building altars, art, music, traditional cuisines, colorful decorations, and other festivities.

The annual event is sponsored by El Centro Del Pueblo, GEPENC, SState Senator Kevin De Leon, Assemblyman Gil Cedillo, Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti and the Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council.

Check out the slideshow of the festival below, or view the entire set on Flickr.

Reach photographer Jaclyn Wu here.