People of all cultures honor the memories of their ancestors. In many parts of Mexico, South America, and the United States, El Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a time to honor and celebrate deceased loved ones. Community participation is an essential part of this holiday that is full of life, reflection, food, family and fun.

Longmont’s annual Día de los Muertos celebration is the Longmont Museum’s signature event and the largest Day of the Dead celebration in Colorado, attracting more than 6,000 people to the exhibit, family event and related programming. The celebration demonstrates how a diverse community can come together to share a common desire – to honor our ancestors and keep their memories alive.

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Día de los Muertos Exhibition

October 10–November 4 at the Longmont Museum; free admission
In partnership with the Denver Botanic Gardens, the Longmont Museum is proud to showcase an exploration of the iconic female figure known as La Catrina. One of Día de los Muertos’ most recognizable icons, La Catrina was born out of Mexican social satire depicting the upper classes and is still seen today in celebration of the holiday. Experience this rich history and iconography through colorful calaca (skeleton) sculptures created by artist Ricardo Soltero. Altars for the dead created by community members are also a central part of the exhibition. 

Exhibition Opening Reception

Thursday, October 10, 6–8 pm at the Longmont Museum; free admission, cash bar
For the fourth year, Cyclhops Mexican Cantina will provide their deluxe nacho bar, a delicious part of our celebration. Presented by Elevations Credit Union. 

Day of the Dead Celebration

Family Fiesta

Saturday, November 2, 2–6 pm; free admission
NEW LOCATION IN DOWNTOWN LONGMONT at the intersection of 4th Avenue and Kimbark Street
The Longmont Museum is joining forces with the Firehouse Art Center, Longmont Downtown Development Authority, and El Comité de Longmont to bring you the biggest and best Día de los Muertos celebration Longmont has ever seen—all held downtown! Live music and dancing, sugar-skull decorating, traditional food, altars, craft making, Catrina face painting, and so much more! Come dressed in your finest calaca (skeleton) apparel! Park downtown or take the free shuttle from the Museum so you can see the exhibit too.

Gigantes Procession

Saturday, November 2, 6:15–7 pm; free
Join a procession of dozens of gigantes, traditional giant puppets made by local artists. We will depart from the Family Fiesta and walk through downtown Longmont, ending at the Dickens Opera House.

Catrina Ball

Saturday, November 2, 7:30–11 pm at the Dickens Opera House; $15 general admission
The party moves to the Dickens Opera House for the night, decorated with candles, marigolds, and traditional papel picado. Admission includes deadly drinks, festive food, live music, and an exhibition of altars. Get your face painted as a Catrina at the Family Fiesta and get ready to dance, dance, dance! Buy tickets at dickensoperahouse.com.

Sugar Skull Making Day

Sunday, October 27, 1 pm at the Longmont Museum; free
Help make sugar skulls that will be decorated during the November 2 Family Fiesta. We will begin making sugar skulls at 1 pm and will continue until the sugar runs out!

Thank you to our other sponsors who make these events possible: