It may be known as Halloween in...

It may be known as Halloween in this country, but in Mexico and many other Spanish-speaking countries it is known as el Dia de los Muertos , or the day of the dead. And forget about the ghoulish traditions that Halloween brings here, because in Mexico the Day of the Dead is something entirely different.

Exploring the historical roots of Mexico’s Day of the Dead celebration is the subject of a special conference and exhibition Saturday at the University Art Gallery at Cal State Dominguez Hills.

In conjunction with this year’s exhibit, there will be a special conference from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday in the Marvin Laser Recital Hall, located next to the gallery.

Miguel Dominguez, director of the Mexican-American Studies Program, and students from the campus’s Mexican/Chicano organization will prepare ofrendas , or “offerings,” which are part of the Day of the Dead celebration. Marigolds, the traditional flower used to honor the dead in Mexico, will adorn the ofrendas , as well as Mexican breads, candies and special dishes.

A cemetery scene will also be on display, recreating the way families meticulously and spectacularly decorate tombs in Mexico during the Day of the Dead celebration.

“In Mexico, it is believed that on the Day of the Dead a beloved departed one returns to be with the family,” Dominguez said. “For this reason, some people create ofrendas or meals highlighted with marigold flowers to attract and honor the visitor.”

What: Exhibit and conference on Mexico’s Day of the Dead celebration.

When: Saturday, the exhibit will be open from 10 a.m. to noon in the University Art Gallery. The conference will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the Marvin Laser Recital Hall located next to the gallery.

Where: Cal State Dominguez Hills, 1000 E. Victoria St., Carson.

Background: Known as el Dia de los Muertos in Mexico, the Day of the Dead celebration has a rich tradition in Latin America. It is a time to remember, and honor, the dead, not to fear death.

Cost: free.

Information: (310) 516-3367.