Behind the abundant skulls and skeletons of Día de los Muertos is a notion that’s more tender than macabre. This Mexican holiday is a time to remember and honor loved ones who have died, through special foods, offerings, artwork and other traditions. Families can experience this centuries-old celebration at the following events (King County Library branches also are offering related events and activities):
Photo courtesy of Metro Parks Tacoma
October 19, 2024
Dia de los Muertos at the Seattle Symphony
Time: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Preconcert activities start at 10 a.m.)
Location: Benaroya Hall, 200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
Cost: $20-$30. Buy tickets here.
Celebrate with vibrant Mexican music, guest artists, and colorful festivities. Pre-concert activities featuring crafts and instrument exploration in the Althea & Stroum Grand Lobby an hour before the concert (the concert starts at 11 a.m.). This program is designed for ages 6–12. Pre-concert activities are free.
October 26, 2024
Seattle Center Festál and Dia de Muertos Festival (October 26 & 27)
Time: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Saturday) and 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Sunday)
Location: Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall, Armory, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
Cost: Free
Taking place at the Armory Food Hall and Fisher Pavilion, the festival offers performances, elaborate altars, colorful face-painting, sugar skull workshops, visual art, and more. The festival takes place from 11 a.m – 7 p.m (Saturday) and 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Sunday).
Día de los Muertos – Tacoma Eastside Community Center
Time: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Location: Eastside Community Center, 1721 E 56th St, Tacoma, WA 98404
Cost: Free, no pre-registration required
The Día de los Muertos celebration originates in pre-Hispanic Mexico. Join the Calavera Collective featuring local artists, Mexican food, a community altar and more. To honor its roots and be accessible to the community, this commemoration will be in Spanish with interpretation in English so that other communities can enjoy it as well.
November 2, 2024
El Centro de la Raza Dia de los Muertos
Time: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Centilia Cultural Center, 1660 S Roberto Maestas Festival St, Seattle, WA 98144
Cost: Free
Join at El Centro de la Raza’s Centilia Cultural Center for food, a mercado, live music and entertainment, children’s activities, and to see the ofrenda (altar) exhibit for the Dia de los Muertos Celebration.
Day of the Dead Festival at Phinney Center
Time: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Phinney Center, 6532 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Cost: Free event, food and drinks for purchase
Featuring an altar, music, dance, crafts (paper flowers, beaded bracelets and temporary face tattoos), a raffle and pop-up shop for dinner.
November 3, 2024
Tacoma Art Museum Dia de Los Muertos celebration
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Tacoma Art Museum, 1701 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
Cost: Free
This free community event features a rich tapestry of activities, including beautiful altars, live music, traditional dance performances, and hands-on art-making workshops. Visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the colorful and meaningful traditions, exploring the history, significance, and artistry associated with this unique celebration.
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Halloween events in and around Seattle
Looking for more holiday outings? Check out seattleschild.com
