Brian Kelley, center, with Allison Nance and Lisa Schmaier celebrate at the Athenaeum’s Day of the Dead Membership Appreciation Night Nov. 2 at the Athenaeum. Photo by Janet Barnett/Gazette Packet
The Athenaeum held a “Dead of the Dead” celebration Nov. 2 as a way to thank members and supporters at its annual Membership Appreciation Night.
The event coincided with the last day of the multi-day, traditional Mexican holiday where families and friends gather to celebrate, rather than mourn, those who have died. The evening featured Day of the Dead memorial displays as well as interactive art projects and traditional Mexican cuisine.
Located at 201 Prince Street, the Athenaeum was built between 1851 and 1852. It is part of the Virginia Trust and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Since 1964, it has been owned and operated by the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association and serves as an arts center for local artists.
For more information on programs and membership, visit www.nvfaa.org