Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a two-day Mexican holiday where people can briefly reunite with the souls of their deceased relatives and loved ones in a celebration with prayers, food, music, and through art. In D.C., there are a number of institutions hosting events and celebrations in honor of the Nov. 1-2 holiday:
1. Witness art come to life at Mexican Geniuses: A Frida & Diego Immersive Experience
The multimedia art installation, Mexican Geniuses: A Frida & Diego Immersive Experience, is hosting a special celebration on Nov. 2 honoring Día de los Muertos! In addition to immersing yourself in the art of renowned Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, the installation will be including family-friendly festive activities during the day, such as arts and crafts and tasty sugar skull treats. Then, later that evening, adults can indulge in sugar skull painting, mezcal cocktails, traditional Mexican cuisine, and live Mariachi music! Get tickets to the experience here!
2. Enjoy a number of festivities at The Wharf
On Oct. 23, The Wharf is hosting a Día de los Muertos celebration in partnership with Modelo and Fiesta D.C. that will feature sugar skull decorating, live music, face painting, street food, and more!
2. Join the Smithsonian for a Día de los Muertos Family Day
The Smithsonian American Art Museum is offering a free, family-friendly Día de los Muertos event Oct. 29, where you can experience live ballet and mariachi performances, get your face painted, and even participate in festive arts and crafts!
3. See the Grammy award-winning band Quetzal in concert
The National Museum of the American Indian and the National Museum of the American Latino are hosting the bilingual Chicano rock band Quetzal on Oct. 29 for a free concert in honor of the day at the Potomac Atrium.
4. Experience Lucha Libre at Hook Hall
Hook Hall is celebrating the holiday with Día de los Muertos-themed Lucha Libre Mexican wrestling! Attendees can take in the show while sipping on imported Mexican beer, margaritas, and festive foods.
5. Attend the National Portrait Gallery’s annual celebration
The National Portrait Gallery’s annual Día de los Muertos celebration is taking place Nov. 3. The free event features projections of works from artists MasPaz and Guache, as well as music, dancing, interactive art activities to participate in!