Día de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, is a tradition that has been practiced for more than 3,000 years in Mexican culture. It’s a time when we remember and honor loved ones who have passed. While some may think this holiday is a gloomy one, it is the complete opposite. It’s a celebration that takes place over the course of two days and involves many rich cultural elements that will vary depending on the region of Mexico.

Explore Day of the Dead events in ChicagoExperience Chicago's Day of the Dead traditions

Nuevo Leon mural; photo by Roxy DelgadoAs a first-generation Mexican American born and raised in Chicago, Day of the Dead has always been my favorite holiday. It is a time when I connect with my cultural identity — my Mexican roots and traditions — at home with my family through the most significant piece of this holiday, the altar.

Without a doubt, the altar is a staple to Día de los Muertos. Typically built at home or in cemeteries, altars are intended to be an offering to the spirits that visit within the two days. The first day honors children who have passed and the next day commemorates adults. Common items you will find on the altars include, photographs of deceased loved ones, the iconic marigold flowers that are traditionally meant to guide the spirits to the offering with their strong aroma, water to quench the spirits thirst after a long journey from the afterlife, and sweet bread for the spirits to enjoy. Individuals also like to personalize the altar by including their loved one’s favorite toys, foods, beverages, and other unique items of significance.

Day of the Dead exhibit at the National Museum of Mexican Art; photo by Roxy DelgadoFor as long as I can remember, every year my family and I begin preparations for this celebration in the spring by planting several pots of marigolds, or “cempasuchitles” in Spanish. When the holiday arrives, the whole family comes together to cut all the marigold flowers — that have fully blossomed at this point and smell amazing — and begin to create our offering. We listen to music, enjoy food, do arts and crafts, and reminisce about memories with loved ones that we believe are spiritually present celebrating that moment with us. To us, this holiday is a beautiful way to celebrate both life and death.

While it originated in Mexico, today Day of the Dead is celebrated throughout Latin America and beyond. If you are looking to get a glimpse of the holiday in Chicago, explore the Day of the Dead activities, events, and celebrations taking place this year in Chicago’s Little Village and Pilsen, two Chicago neighborhoods with large Mexican-American communities.

Explore Day of the Dead events in Chicago

Dia de los Muertos at the National Museum of Mexican ArtDía de Muertos, Where the Past is Present

Now through Dec. 8, 2024

Now in its 38th year, this exhibit at the National Museum of Mexican Art showcases Day of the Dead as an act of grieving and an annual celebration of life. You can experience the museum filled with a collection of altars and artwork that pays tribute to the lives of lost loved ones from around the world.

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Día de los Muertos Xicágo in Pilsen

Oct. 26, 2024

This free event brings live music, art activities, and colorful memorial altars to the National Museum of Mexican Art and the surrounding park. Enjoy an afternoon immersed in this annual cultural celebration.

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Carrera de los Muertos

Nov. 2, 2024

Every autumn, the streets of historic Pilsen come alive with the spirit of Día de los Muertos. Carrera de los Muertos, which translates to Race of the Dead, has been a tradition for more than 15 years. The 5k participants, whether runners or walkers, can expect a sea of colorful costumes, lively entertainment, and delicious food, all against the backdrop of the rich cultural tapestry that defines Day of the Dead.

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Maxwell Street Market in Chicagos Near West SideDía de los Muertos: Love Never Dies Ball

Nov. 2, 2024

The National Museum of Mexican Art cordially invites you to a special celebration that honors life and the spirits of los muertos. Indulge in delicious culinary treats from some of Chicago’s best restaurants, sip on delicious adult beverages, and dance the night away to live music.

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Check out more Day of the Dead events in Chicago

Ofrendas y flores: Día de los Muertos’ Connection to Graceland Cemetery (Oct. 19)Sugar Skull Decorating Workshop at Humboldt Park (Oct. 21)Fused Glass 101! Day of the Dead atChicago Glass Collective (Oct. 23)Sones de Mexico: Day of the Dead Concert (Oct. 25)Día De Los Muertos at Burnham Park (Oct. 26)Day of the Dead LIVE! at Harold Washington Library Center (Oct. 29 – Nov. 1)Experience Chicagos Day of the Dead traditions

Pan de Muertos; photo by Roxy DelgadoDay of the Dead Mural in Little Village

In 2019, Nuevo Leon Restaurant worked alongside graffiti artist Elizabeth “Liz” Reyes to create the largest Day of the Mural in Little Village titled Celebrando Comunidad. As you are participating in the celebrations taking place in the community, I highly recommend stopping by and checking out the bold colors and incredible Day of the Dead details in artwork.

Pilsen’s giant Day of the Dead Ofrenda

Pilsen resident Isabel Hernandez created her own ofrenda on 19th Street between Throop and Loomis. The display, which stands over 15 feet tall, honors the passed loved ones from the Pilsen community. With over 250 pictures displayed, this altar is a must-see in Pilsen.

Shop Day of the Dead accessories

When celebrating Dia de los Muertos, one of the most cherished aspects is the creation of the ofrenda, or altar, adorned with vibrant and meaningful accessories. This year, consider adding more significance to your celebration by shopping locally for your altar decorations. Here are some of my personal favorite shops in Little Village.

Artesania ElenaDulcelandiaTodo de Mexico La Casa de ArtesaniaTry pan de muertos (Day of the Dead sweet bread)

During this celebration, pan de muertos is a must! Whether it is to be placed on an altar or to be enjoyed with a hot chocolate, below are some of my favorite bakeries where you can shop for a variety of Day of the Dead sweetbread.

El Nopal BakeryLa Espiga De Oro BakeryLa Baguette BakeryLeon Nuevo BakeryRosys Bakery