Day of the Dead altar honors Pete Siedler

In celebration of one of Mexico’s most significant holidays, Old Town icon Casa Guadalajara is remembering the life and work of Peter Seidler, a pillar of the San Diego community, with a beautiful Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) altar.

Casa Guadalajara has transformed its fountain located at the entrance of the restaurant into an elaborate altar decorated with traditional elements, such as marigold flowers, sugar skulls and candles as well as Padres memorabilia and heartfelt photos of Seidler. It will be on display through Nov. 2.

As the Padres fight for a spot in the National League Championship series, their playoff success is credited to Seidler even after his death in November, 2023. He massively increased the payroll for the Padres, vowing to play to win. This resulted in huge talent acquisitions such as Manny Machado, Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove. He also built team spirit and created a party atmosphere at Petco Park. Thanks to him, attendance this season has surpassed 41,000 on average, making the in-person Padres support only beat out by the Dodgers and Phillies.

Throughout his lifetime, Seidler was an active advocate for individuals experiencing homelessness. In the true spirit of the holiday, visitors are encouraged to donate to the Lucky Duck Foundation and support the Foundation’s efforts to help provide food, shelter, job training and employment for those struggling to get back on their feet. Available through Nov. 2, Bazaar del Mundo restaurants Casa Guadalajara, Casa de Pico and Casa de Bandini are serving a special Lucky Duck Margarita with 20% of proceeds going to the Lucky Duck Foundation, and additional donations can be made at luckyduckfoundation.org/donate. 

“Día de Los Muertos” is a time to remember past family and loved ones, realizing that death is a continuation of life. Additional altars at all Bazaar del Mundo venues, Bazaar del Mundo Shops, Casa de Pico and Casa de Bandini will also be on display.