Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a tradition celebrated in Mexico on the 1st and 2nd of each November. It is a joyful time that helps people remember the deceased and honor their memory. 
 

To honor their deceased loved ones, people build altars in their homes for Día de los Muertos. At these altars:

  • Orange and yellow flowers, especially marigolds, provide decoration.
  • People leave ofrendas, offerings to their loved ones’ souls. These include tamales, chilis, water, tequila, and pan de muerto, a special bread.
  • Candles illuminate photos and mementos of the deceased.
  • Families read letters and poems and tell stories and jokes about the dead.

Día de los Muertos began hundreds of years ago in Mexico and northern Central America. It is a blend of Aztec, Mayan, Toltec, and Catholic traditions. Now, people celebrate the event in many parts of the world. You can experience Día de los Muertos locally in LOVE Park.

Join us for two Día de los Muertos events:

The 2020 Dia de los Muertos altar in LOVE Park.

Day of the Dead at LOVE Park 2021 Kick-off Event

When: Friday, October 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Where: LOVE Park, 1501 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19102
 

Kick-off Day of the Dead in LOVE Park with:

  • An altar created by Mexican artist Cesar Viveros.
  • Music by “Los Guachinangos” band, playing Jarocho folk music.
  • Aztec dances by “Calpulli kamastle Xiuhcoatl.”
  • Food for sale from El Burrito Feliz starting at 3 p.m.
The altar will be on display until Tuesday, November 2.
 

Day of the Dead Bike Ride

When: October 31 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Join us for a bike ride from South Philadelphia to LOVE Park. Visit the altar and learn about Day of the Dead with Mexican writer José Carlos Pérez Sámano. Email for more information about this event.
 

These events are presented in collaboration with:

  • Consulate of Mexico in Philadelphia
  • Mexican Cultural Center
  • The Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs
  • Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia
  • Indego
Check out the other events and activities at LOVE Park this fall.
LOVE Park is back with a full slate of outdoor activities! Learn more about the food, fun, and festivities we have planned throughout the fall.