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October 14.2025
3 Minutes Read

Celebrating Life: Rita Flores de Wallace's Legacy in Denver’s Ofrenda

Elderly man and young group in library, Denver news discussion.

Honoring Rita Flores de Wallace: A Legacy in Denver’s Art Scene

As Denver prepares to celebrate Día de los Muertos, the community comes together to honor the legacy of Rita Flores de Wallace, a revered artist celebrated as the city’s ‘First Lady’ of Mexican folk art. The History Colorado Center has transformed its lobby into an altar, or ofrenda, created by Cal Duran, who was Flores de Wallace's final student.

Flores de Wallace passed away in April 2025, but her impact on Denver’s cultural landscape continues to resonate. Her husband, John 'Juanito' Wallace, reflected on her remarkable influence saying, ‘She was involved in everything,’ referring to her commitment not only to the local Latino community but to all facets of the energetic Denver art scene.

Creating a Community Celebration of Life and Death

Cal Duran describes the altar as a celebration of life and community. Ofrendas traditionally embody the four elements of nature: earth, air, fire, and water. At this year’s installation, the air element is symbolized by a large, intricate papier-mâché heart, while the earth element features a skeleton and photographs of Flores de Wallace herself, embracing the cultural intertwining of life and death. Duran has been keen to emphasize the importance of storytelling and memory in the construction of an ofrenda, promoting it as an interactive experience for the Denver community.

Embracing Tradition and Cultural Significance

Día de los Muertos is not merely a day of remembrance. In fact, as artist Cal Duran points out, it serves as a cultural bridge where vibrant color and joy coexist with reflection and gratitude. The ofrendas allow families to honor their loved ones who have passed by inviting anyone in the community to add memories to the altar. Duran believes this act transforms the experience from a solitary one into a shared collective celebration, enriching the community’s connection to its past.

The Educational Impact of Rita Flores de Wallace

Throughout her 40-year career, Rita Flores de Wallace was instrumental in nurturing the Mexican folk art scene in Colorado, creating educational opportunities and mentorship for countless artists. She traveled from Mexico to Denver, bringing with her a treasure trove of knowledge and traditions that helped shape the cultural fabric of the city. Her work has been integral to advancing the awareness of Día de los Muertos within a broader audience, as mentioned by her advocate, Duran, who admired her visionary role in the community.

Join the Celebrations

This year, the memorial for Rita Flores de Wallace at the History Colorado Center is a significant affair not only for her family but for all who cherish her contributions. If you’re in Denver, consider visiting to experience the ofrenda yourself, engage with the community, and reflect on the stories of those who have gone before us. It’s a profoundly moving event that reminds us all to celebrate life, honor our loved ones, and appreciate the cultural traditions that unite us.

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12.13.2025

Discover Denver's Unique Festival Love with 'Wooking for Love'

Update Denver’s New Face of Dating: Introducing 'Wooking for Love' Denver is gearing up for a fresh take on reality dating shows with the upcoming series 'Wooking for Love'. Aimed at showcasing the city’s vibrant festival culture, this show promises to diverge from traditional dating formats and connect with a unique subculture that mainstream shows often overlook. With the lessons learned from the unsuccessful season of 'Love is Blind', which notably featured zero successful couples from the Mile High City, 'Wooking for Love' seeks to redefine what real connections look like within Denver. What Makes 'Wooking for Love' a Unique Concept? 'Wooking for Love' is infused with the spirit of electronic dance music (EDM) festivals, a culture cherished by many who consider themselves part of the “wook” community. The term, while often associated with unkempt festival-goers, is embraced positively here, symbolizing those who live to celebrate music and connection. With planned challenges revolving around flow-art choreography, stage production, and communal living at a villa in Morrison, the show promises an authentic glimpse into festival life. A Festival of Challenges and Celebrating Diversity According to the creators, LaRue Allegretto, the vision is clear: “This is not just about finding love; it’s about celebrating the culture and vibrant community that comes alive during festivals.” Contestants from all walks of life, identities, and relationship styles are invited to apply, thus fostering a diverse environment. Currently, applications are open until Valentine’s Day, with an overwhelming response already capturing interest in the show. Local Culture and Its Influence The series highlights iconic local venues like Red Rocks and Nova Studios, further rooting the series in Denver’s cultural landscape. Collaborations with local businesses reflect a community-driven approach to storytelling, turning traditional dating interactions into festival-like experiences. The show intends to showcase the fun, quirky side of love beyond glamour, emphasizing authenticity and shared passions. Final Thoughts on 'Wooking for Love' As 'Wooking for Love' moves closer to its filming date scheduled for early spring 2026, it holds potential not just for its participants, but also for Denver’s image. This new dating show could set the stage for innovative representations of love and relationships amid the vibrant, eclectic backdrop of Denver’s festival scene. If you’re part of the Denver culture and want to experience its rhythm in relationships, consider applying or attending the upcoming audition events. 'Wooking for Love' promises to be an exhilarating exploration of love, laughter, and music.

12.11.2025

Denver Museum Thanksgiving Dinner Sells Out for the First Time Ever

Update Denver Museum of Nature and Science Creates Community Around Thanksgiving This Thanksgiving, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science marked a milestone by selling out its beloved Thanksgiving dinner service for the first time in history. Typically, around 200 meals are prepared for museum guests and staff alike, but this year, that number doubled to about 400, including an impressive array of dishes such as 20 pizzas and 64 turkeys. The enthusiastic response highlights a growing recognition of the museum as not just a place for education and discovery but also a hub for community connection. The Secret Revealed: A Growing Tradition The Thanksgiving meal has been a charming tradition at the museum, but it went largely unnoticed by the wider public until recently. Executive chef Simone Guidry shared that this year's increase in attendance can be credited to holiday promotions by local media, including an article mentioned just before Thanksgiving. Before this publicity, many visitors had little idea that such an offering existed. "This year the secret is out, and we’ll have to prepare more for next year," Guidry noted, alluding to the exciting prospect of an even larger turnout in 2026. A Feast Celebrated Beyond the Food For those lucky enough to secure a plate, the meal served was nothing short of excellent. Diners praised the traditional fixings, from pumpkin pie to sweet potatoes, emphasizing that the culinary experience complemented the museum's fascinating exhibits—dinosaurs, Lego robotics, and the wonders of space. One visitor humorously summarized the day, saying, "Pumpkin pie A+, Cranberry sauce A+, Dinosaurs, Lego, and space 5 stars" reflecting a blend of satisfaction that expressed both culinary delight and the joy of museum experiences. The Impact of Community and Togetherness Beyond the delicious meal, the Thanksgiving dinner at the museum fosters community spirit among staff and the public. Many volunteers participate in this unique event, making family connections that go beyond a holiday meal. As one guest noted, this dinner invites a sense of belonging during a time typically reserved for gathering with friends and family. By providing this space, the museum positions itself as an inclusive venue where attendees can partake in festive traditions, even while away from home. Looking Forward: Prepare for Next Year With the overwhelming demand and positive feedback received this year, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science is poised to make Thanksgiving 2026 even more memorable. Guests and families interested in joining this gathering should consider arriving early next year to avoid missing out. This popular event not only serves to fill bellies but also builds bonds within the community as families, friends, and museum lovers alike come together to celebrate the holiday. This year’s turnout is a clear indication that the community values unique holiday experiences, especially those that create a sense of belonging and togetherness. Consider marking your calendars for next Thanksgiving at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science—a holiday tradition that’s sure to bring joy to countless families in the years to come!

12.10.2025

Venezuelan Daughter Seizes Hope: Key Moments from Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance

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