3 fun events this weekend - Burningcatlyon

Dia de los Muertosthe Mexican celebration of the Day of the Dead, comes to life this weekend, inviting everyone to honor and remember deceased loved ones. Wherever you are in metro Phoenix, there’s probably a party nearby.

Nasty celebrate appropriatelythen consider a festival with colorful altars, traditional music and vibrant decorations. Take part in traditional activities such as face painting or making sugar skullsthat embody the spirit of the holiday. Visit local markets for handmade crafts and authentic foods and participate in community gatherings to share stories and memories.

Embrace the beauty of this Mexican tradition during these Day of the Dead celebrations around metro Phoenix.

Día de los Muertos at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix

This celebration includes a beautiful community altar, inspired by the cempasúchil (marigold) flower and the love story of Xóchitl and Huitzilin.

View dramatic displays of flower sculptures and handmade silver hummingbirds alongside the ceramic art of Oaxacan artist Rufina Ruiz Lopez. Visitors can join the procession and honor their loved ones by placing photos and mementos on the ofrenda.

Details: Friday to Sunday, November 1-3, 12 noon – 6 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Included in the garden entrance fee of $24.95 ($14.95 for ages 3 to 17). dbg.org.

Día de los Muertos Festival in Avondale

Celebrate the 16th annual Día de los Muertos Festival, hosted by Ballet Folklorico Esperanza and Avondale. There will be live music and other entertainment, food trucks, arts and crafts and a community ofrenda. Take photos of your loved ones and place them on the altar in their memory.

Details: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Saturday, November 2. Avondale Goodyear Farms Historic Cemetery, 3900 N Santa Fe Trail, Avondale. Free. balletfolkloricoesperanza.org.

Funeral home and cemetery overlooking the Dia de los Muertos mountains

This family-friendly event invites the community to honor loved ones with beautifully decorated altars, enjoy food from local food trucks and experience cultural performances featuring folklorico dancers and mariachi music. Visitors are encouraged to wear their favorite Day of the Dead attire and have their faces painted during this celebration of memory and joy.

Details: 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM Saturday, November 2. Mountain View Funeral Home & Cemetery, 7900 E. Main St., Mesa. Free. mountainviewfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

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