Dia de los Muertos—or Day of the Dead—is a Mexican holiday that falls on Nov. 1 and 2, when families and friends celebrate the lives of loved ones who have died. Unlike Halloween, the idea is not to spook, but rather embrace the spirits of the dead. Here are some spots where you can honor lives well lived.
Dia de los Muertos Evening Picnic
Spread a blanket on the lawn of the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington in Virginia Square on Nov. 1, 5-8 p.m. Bring your own provisions or pick something up from on-site food trucks Rossana Coffee, Taco Cinco De Mayo and TNT Mexican Grill. Decorate calavera masks, play games and bring a photo of a late loved one to place on an ofrenda (altar) created by Arlington artist David Amoroso. This community event also promises dance performances by Los Quetzales, a bilingual poetry reading and mariachi music. 3550 Wilson Blvd., ArlingtonÂ
DÃa de los Muertos at The Wharf
In partnership with the Mexican Cultural Institute, Fiesta DC and Modelo, The Wharf will host a bevy of Day of the Dead activities Nov. 1, 3-7 p.m. They include live music from the Latin Celtic band La Unica, dance performances, a Modelo beer garden, and interactive stations including face painting and sugar skull decorating. Dress the part in your most colorful and authentic ensemble, snap a photo with the sugar skull display and explore hand-crafted altars that pay tribute to lost loved ones. At sunset, guests will get LED candles to carry in a community procession along the waterfront as a tribute to remembrance. M Street Landing (adjacent to 604 Water Street St., SW) to Seventh Street, Washington, D.C.
Remembering Together: DÃa de los Muertos & DÃa de los Difuntos
For the first time, the Arlington Historical Museum will have a Community Ofrenda (altar) where visitors can place remembrances of loved ones who have passed on. Laden with traditional symbols such as marigolds and paper flowers, candles, food and drinks to share with ancestors, and photos and mementos, the ofrenda will be on display through Nov. 8. On Nov. 1 and 2, the museum will have a table set up in the traditional Bolivian style with information about the exhibit. 1805 S. Arlington Ridge Road, Arlington
Dia de los Muertos Honoring Our Pets Ceremony and Sound Bath
Curanderas Heart will also host a special ceremony to honor pets on Oct. 27, 6-7:30 p.m. Create an altar by bringing pictures of furry friends who have passed, along with their favorite toys and treats. Afterward, participate in a healing south bath. Tickets are $55. 5852 Washington Blvd., Arlington (Westover)