Top Día de los Muertos Events in Dallas 2024
Celebrate the Day of the Dead in Dallas, Texas this fall.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a beautiful celebration where the living reunite with their departed loved ones. This vibrant Mexican tradition spans two days, filled with colorful altars (ofrendas), traditional foods, music, and joyful remembrance. In Dallas, the city comes alive with various events, parades, and festivals, making it the perfect place to experience this unique cultural holiday.
What Is Día de los Muertos?
Día de los Muertos is not just a time to mourn but to celebrate the lives of those who have passed. Families create elaborate ofrendas decorated with marigold flowers, photos, and the favorite foods of the departed. The bright colors, scents, and sounds are believed to guide the spirits back to the land of the living, where they join in the celebrations. Unlike Halloween, Día de los Muertos embraces death as a natural part of life, creating a joyous occasion filled with love and remembrance.
When Is Día de los Muertos?
November 1st: Día de los Angelitos, or Day of the Little Angels, honors the spirits of deceased children. Families prepare altars with toys, candies, and the child’s favorite treats.
November 2nd: Día de los Difuntos and Día de los Muertos honor adults and all departed souls. The celebrations include traditional foods like pan de muerto, marigolds, and ofrendas featuring tequila, mezcal, and cherished memories.
How Dallas Celebrates Día de los Muertos
Dallas takes this holiday to heart with a variety of events that bring the community together to honor the departed. From lively parades to cultural exhibitions, here’s how you can celebrate Día de los Muertos in Dallas this year.
Dallas Día de los Muertos Parade and Festival
Saturday, October 26, 2024 | 2 p.m.
Experience the vibrant spirit of Dallas with the Día de los Muertos Parade and Festival. The parade kicks off at Dallas City Hall and winds through downtown, featuring enchanting Catrinas, dancers, music, floats, and intricate costumes. Beyond the parade, enjoy a family-friendly festival filled with live entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts, and more.
Día de los Muertos Exhibition at the Latino Cultural Center
October 25 - November 9, 2024
The Latino Cultural Center hosts an annual Día de los Muertos exhibition that showcases altars from community members, artists, and organizations. Wander through this cultural hub, exploring unique altars that pay tribute to the departed. The center also features year-round events, including the Día de los Muertos festival, with gallery exhibitions and outdoor art installations.
Mística by Ballet Nepantla at Latino Cultural Center
Saturday, November 2, 2024 | 7-8 p.m.
"Mística" by Ballet Nepantla honors the creative and spiritual energies of Día de los Muertos. This free event combines ballet folklorico and contemporary dance, transporting audiences into the afterlife with the use of blacklight and mesmerizing performances. Arrive early, as this event is first-come, first-served.
Dia de Muertos at the Bath House Cultural Center
October 27 - November 3, 2024
Explore the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos at the Bath House Cultural Center. This exhibition focuses on the often-overlooked aspects of the holiday, such as the additional dates that honor forgotten souls. The altars and art installations convey messages of love, remembrance, and respect, creating a touching experience for visitors. Each piece tells a story, inviting you to connect with the rich history, vibrant colors, and soulful rituals that make this holiday so deeply meaningful.
Dallas Symphony – Día de los Muertos Concert
Tuesday, October 29, 2024 | 7:30 p.m.
Feel the pulse of Día de los Muertos as the Dallas Symphony Orchestra brings this celebration to life with a concert that resonates with joy and remembrance. From the powerful rhythms of traditional Latin American music to the colorful festivities that fill the hall, this is more than just a performance—it's a spirited homage to those who have passed. Perfect for families and music lovers alike, this concert is a heartfelt celebration of life, death, and the enduring spirit of our ancestors.
Celebración del Día de Muertos
Selected dates from October 19 - November 3, 2024
Hosted by the Hughes Family Tribute Center, this annual event is an authentic celebration featuring mariachi music, Mayan dance performances, face painting, children's games, and more. With each year growing bigger and better, this festival captures the true essence of Día de los Muertos, offering something for everyone.
Celebra del Día de Muertos- Community Alter
Nov. 1 and Nov. 2
The Largest Dia de los Muertos - Community Altar celebrates the beloved cultural tradition of remembering loved ones who have passed on. The largest community altar will be installed on the Ron Kirk Pedestrian Bridge. The two-day event will be held on Friday, November 1st from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and November 2nd from 12 noon to 10 p.m. There is no admission fee.
Day of the Dead Festival at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center
Friday, November 1, 2024
The MLK Community Center commemorates Día de los Muertos with free activities, including a movie showing, food, and treats. An altar display invites attendees to honor their loved ones, with the opportunity to leave photos and mementos on the communal ofrenda.
Margarita Mile: Last Call
Leading up to Día de los Muertos
Dallas's Margarita Mile wraps up its season on Día de los Muertos, offering the last chance to sip and savor delicious margaritas around the city. Use the Margarita Mile pass to explore participating venues and earn some cool swag along the way.
- Plan Ahead: Some events, like the Dallas Symphony Concert and the Mística by Ballet Nepantla, may have limited seating. Be sure to arrive early or get your tickets in advance.
- Dress the Part: Many attendees embrace the tradition of Calavera face painting and wear festive attire to events. Feel free to join in the colorful celebration!
- Respect the Culture: Día de los Muertos is a deeply meaningful holiday. When visiting events and exhibitions, show respect for the altars and cultural symbols.
Celebrate Life and Remember the Departed
Día de los Muertos in Dallas is a heartfelt celebration that honors the lives of those who have passed in a truly joyous way. Whether you’re attending the Dallas Día de los Muertos Parade, exploring the altars at the Latino Cultural Center, or enjoying the festive music at the Dallas Symphony Concert, there's a wealth of cultural experiences awaiting you.
Join the Dallas community in this vibrant celebration of life and death, where memories are cherished, and the spirits of our loved ones are welcomed back with open hearts.
