For the first time, the City of Stamford formally celebrated the Day of the Dead, an important Mexican holiday which honors those who have died.

The group started with a march from Latham Park to Washington Boulevard – finishing at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church.

The event was filled with culture, traditions, and remembering those who are no longer here. The Mexican celebration of Dia de los Muertos could be heard from down the block, with its vibrant traditional music, dancing and attire.

"They have beautiful colors…beautiful colors will remember to be happy for those people who left already," said Pilar Blanco, one of the creators of the event.

After receiving a grant from the City of Stamford, Blanco and the Latino Foundation of Stamford are now giving the community an opportunity to celebrate the lives no longer here.

Like Blanco and other, they're holding onto cherished memories and photos of their loved ones who have passed.

For Ivania Soriano, she's carrying the memories of her child, placing her photo and favorite items on the alter.

"I just put down my daughters' photo. She passed away almost 14 years ago. She was my baby her name was Brandy," says Soriano.

Although remembering the loss of a loved one can be difficult, many say it's the spirit of Dia de los Muertos that turns around the way we see death.

"There is a Mexican song that says – if you cry, I don't rest in peace, but if you sing with me, I will forever live within you... that's why I smile every day for her," says Soriano.