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Here's how you can celebrate Día de los Muertos in Albuquerque
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Albuquerque will come alive during Día de los Muertos, a two-day holiday that reunites the living and the dead through vibrant traditions.
From colorful parades to historical tours and art exhibits, here are eight unique ways to join in the festivities and experience the rich cultural heritage that brings this beloved holiday to life.
Día de los Muertos in Old Town
Old Town Albuquerque will host its Día de los Muertos celebration Oct. 25 to Nov. 4. Stroll through Old Town, listening to live music and exploring shops and plazas adorned with orange and yellow marigolds to see why it’s called the “Marigold Mile.” You can also take an ofrenda tour to view over 24 ofrendas, which are used to welcome the souls of deceased family members into homes.
A Family Day celebration will take place on both Saturdays, featuring activities such as screenings of “Coco” and “The Book of Life,” a Catrina Parade and papier-mâché sculptures. To view the full Family Day schedule, click here.
Día de los Muertos LLC
Día de los Muertos LLC will host its Inaugural Día de los Muertos Parade in Albuquerque on Nov. 9, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., with the main parade starting at 7 p.m. This new event aims to celebrate life and honor loved ones through live music, concessions, arts and crafts and much more. Tickets are available for reservation — don't miss this unforgettable tribute to tradition.
Luis Contreras Offrenda Show
Luis Contreras' new show, Mi Nuevo Mexico, known for his Catrina sculptures, has created a new ofrenda exhibit, running from Oct. 10 to Nov. 17.
During the reception, celebrate Día de los Muertos alongside Plaza Don Luis. The evening will feature mariachis, pan de muerto, public ofrendas and more.
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Dead-icated - A Día de los Muertos Tour
AbqTours will host a 75-minute tour through Albuquerque’s Historic Old Town in celebration of Día de los Muertos. Running on Nov. 1–2, the tour departs at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Hispanic culture as you explore ofrendas, intricate sculptures and captivating entertainment.
The tour also dives into the history, folklore and traditions of this iconic celebration. Tickets are $25 per person, and they tend to sell out quickly.
Discovery After Dark
Join the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History for an evening of fun, hands-on experiments, and art projects for guests ages 21 and over at Discovery After Dark on Nov. 2 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Enjoy food and beverage trucks, a cash bar from Bombs Away Brewery and the museum’s engaging, thought-provoking exhibits. Unleash your inner child, dance to the DJ or compete in the Day of the Dead costume contest. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.
Día de Familia: Día de los Muertos
The National Hispanic Cultural Center (NHCC) will host a family event to celebrate Día de los Muertos traditions on Nov. 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., sponsored by NM Gas. This free event includes activities like sugar skull decorating, paper flower crafting, and more. Guests are encouraged to bring a non-returnable photo or item to contribute to the community ofrenda. Tickets can be reserved in advance.
Muertos Fiesta at Marble Brewery
Marble Brewery Downtown will host its annual Muertos Fiesta on Nov. 2, offering a lively celebration of Día de los Muertos with live music and local vendors. Guests are welcome to bring photos and offerings for the community ofrenda. This is a free event, and registration is available.
The music lineup includes:
- Group Therapy: 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
- The Rudy Boy Experiment: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Burque Sol: 5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Vibestrong: 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Levi Platero: 8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Muertos y Marigolds
Head to Rio Bravo County Park on Nov. 3 from noon to 4 p.m. for the South Valley Día de los Muertos Celebration and Marigold Procession. This unique celebration is inspired by José Guadalupe Posada’s early 1900s portrayals of personalities and professions as skeletons, or calaveras. The free event is partially funded by New Mexico Arts and the McCune Foundation.
