From October 28th to November 1st, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village comes alive with vibrant colors, enchanting music, and the spirit of celebration during the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) event.
This age-old tradition, rooted in ancient Aztec beliefs, has evolved into one of Tlaquepaque’s most intoxicating celebrations, drawing visitors of all ages to commemorate the departed in a joyous atmosphere of art and culture.
What is Dia de los Muertos?
Also known as “Old Souls Day” in Mexico, Dia de los Muertos is a heartfelt celebration of life and remembrance, where families gather to honor their departed loved ones. At Tlaquepaque, this tradition transforms the streets, patios, and fountains into a mesmerizing display of creativity and love.
What to Expect at Tlaquepaque:
Exquisite Altars and Installations:
Wander through Tlaquepaque to discover meticulously curated altars, each telling a unique story. From “Oferendas,” offerings placed at the altars, to “Papel Picado,” vibrant cut-paper banners adorning the patios, every corner echoes the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos.
Marigold Mural Project:
Engage with the community at the Marigold Mural Project, now in its eleventh year. Paint your tribute to a lost loved one on the 26-foot-long community remembrance wall. Paints and brushes are provided, and previous years’ murals serve as inspiring backdrops.
Live Performances and Entertainment:
Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring performances on Saturday, October 28th. From traditional guitarists like David Mills and Eric Miller to the enchanting melodies of Ballet De Colores Folklorico, the air will be filled with the sounds of celebration.
Gastronomic Delights:
Indulge your taste buds with culinary delights from various food vendors on Calle Independencia. From Dia de los Muertos Bread to Elote and Fresh Salsa, savor the flavors of this vibrant Mexican tradition.
Face Painting and Mercado:
Let your creativity flow with face painting activities (available for a fee) and explore the Mercado, a bustling market offering unique treasures and crafts.
Free Shuttle Service:
Avail the convenience of the free Sedona Trolley Shuttle, running from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, making your visit hassle-free.
As you explore the enchanting streets of Tlaquepaque, don’t forget to take in the craft shops that call this village home. These shops, some of which are featured on Etsy, offer a glimpse into the world of artisans and crafters who bring their creativity to life in the heart of this cultural haven.
This year’s Tlaquepaque celebration of Dia de los Muertos and the Marigold Mural Project promises to be an unforgettable cultural experience.
The new format, rich traditions, engaging mural painting, and a spectrum of entertainment will ensure that you are immersed in the spirit of this extraordinary celebration.
The colors, the culture, and the heartfelt tributes all combine to make this a cultural extravaganza not to be missed.