Festival de las Calaveras
The Festival of Las Calaveras is an annual celebration in Minneapolis that brings the rich traditions and vibrant colors of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) to the Twin Cities. This unique event, held each fall, has become a cultural gathering spot for locals and visitors alike who want to experience this traditional Mexican holiday.
Central to the festival are the intricate ofrendas set up by local artists and families. These altars honor ancestors and loved ones with marigold flowers, candles, photos, and items that were meaningful to those who have passed.
Día de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday that honors the lives of those who have passed away. Far from a somber occasion, it’s a lively celebration of love, remembrance, and the belief that death is a part of life’s natural cycle.
Music and dance are vital to the Day of the Dead celebrations, and at the Festival of Las Calaveras, you’ll find plenty of both! Expect to hear traditional Mexican folk music and watch performances by dancers in beautiful, hand-embroidered costumes. Mariachi bands and indigenous dance troupes create a lively and reverent atmosphere, filling the air with the sounds and rhythms of Mexican heritage.
While Día de los Muertos is rooted in Mexican tradition, the festival welcomes everyone to participate, offering a respectful and joyous space for the whole community.
