Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is a tradition that has been practiced in Mexican culture for over 3,000 years. This meaningful celebration is not a somber affair but a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed, with music, color, and community.

At the heart of the holiday are ofrendas, altars filled with offerings meant to welcome spirits back for a brief visit. These displays are often adorned with photographs, candles, marigold flowers whose strong aroma is believed to guide spirits home, water to quench their thirst, and sweet bread to enjoy after the long journey. Families also personalize altars with toys, favorite foods, or other meaningful items, making each one unique.

Though it originated in Mexico, Día de los Muertos is now observed across Latin America and around the world. In Chicago, the holiday is celebrated widely, especially in neighborhoods like Pilsen and Little Village, where exhibitions, parades, and community gatherings offer visitors a meaningful glimpse into this beautiful tradition.

Explore Day of the Dead events in Chicago

Dia de los Muertos at the National Museum of Mexican Art
Dia de los Muertos at the National Museum of Mexican Art

Día de los Muertos Xicágo
Harrison Park
Oct. 24, 2026

In Pilsen, the National Museum of Mexican Art hosts this annual community gathering to honor Day of the Dead. Enjoy live music and performances, art activities, and a stunning illuminated ofrenda. Activities will take place inside and outside the museum in adjacent Harrison Park.

Día de Muertos: A Celebration of Remembrance exhibit
National Museum of Mexican Art
Now through Nov. 29 2026

Where Memory Lives::  40 Years of Día de Muertos is the annual exhibition from the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen. The free museum explores the roots of Day of the Dead and how memories can be preserved through art.

Xempasúchil:Día de los Muertos
Little Village
Oct. 31 – Nov. 1, 2026

This special two-day event will celebrate the spirit of Día de los Muertos in Little Village, known as the “Mexico of the Midwest”. Enjoy traditional ofrendas at local businesses, free traditional food, photo booths, and more during Xempasúchil: Día de los Muertos.

La Carrera de los Muertos (Race of the Dead 5K)
Pilsen
Oct. 31, 2026

Every autumn, the streets of historic Pilsen come alive with the spirit of Día de los Muertos. Carrera de los Muertos, which translates to Race of the Dead, has been a neighborhood tradition for 19 years. Runners and walkers are welcome. All participants will receive an official race-day shirt.

Día de los Muertos events at Chicago Public Libraries 
Chicago Public Library locations
Through October

Celebrate Día de los Muertos and Hispanic Heritage Month at Chicago Public Library branches across the city. Events include making paper mache catrinas, decorating sugar skulls, festive painting lessons, and more all-ages celebrations. See the Chicago Public Library events calendar for information; advance registration is required at many events.

Día de los Muertos events at Chicago Park District 
Chicago parks
Through October

Attend workshops and celebrations in Chicago parks through October that celebrate Day of the Dead traditions. Learn how to make your own altar, decorate sugar skulls, and more. For details, check out the Chicago Park District events calendar.

Little Village arch for Day of the Dead
Little Village arch for Day of the Dead; photo by Roxy Delgado

Día de los Muertos: Love Never Dies Ball
National Museum of Mexican Art
Nov. 7, 2026

Celebrate and honor life and the spirits of los muertos at Love Never Dies Ball at the National Museum of Mexican Art. Indulge in delicious culinary treats from some of Chicago’s best restaurants, sip on delicious adult beverages, and dance the night away to live music.

Día de los Muertos Ritmo del Mar
Shedd Aquarium
Oct. 30, 2026

Honor Day of the Dead traditions and celebrate with a vibrant night of music, food, and culture, during Día de los Muertos Ritmo del Mar at the Shedd Aquarium. Move to the beat while celebrating life, memory, and community. Get your tickets today.

Experience Chicago’s Day of the Dead traditions

Little Village

Day of the Dead Mural in Little Village
In 2019, Nuevo Leon Restaurant worked alongside artist Liz Reyes to create the largest Day of the Dead Mural in Little Village, titled Celebrando Comunidad. As you are participating in the celebrations taking place in the community, make sure to stop by and check out the bold colors and incredible Day of the Dead details in the artwork.

Pilsen’s giant Day of the Dead Ofrenda
Pilsen resident Isabel Hernandez created her own ofrenda on 19th Street between Throop and Loomis. The display, which stands over 15 feet tall, honors the passed loved ones from the Pilsen community. With over 250 pictures displayed, this altar is a must-see in Pilsen.

Try pan de muertos (Day of the Dead sweet bread)
During this celebration, pan de muertos is a must! Whether it is to be placed on an altar or to be enjoyed with a hot chocolate, below are a few top bakeries where you can shop for a variety of Day of the Dead sweet bread.

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Support local businesses in Chicago

Shop Day of the Dead accessories
When celebrating Día de los Muertos, one of the most cherished aspects is the creation of the ofrenda, or altar, adorned with vibrant and meaningful accessories. This year, consider adding more significance to your celebration by shopping locally for your altar decorations.

Start Exploring Route 66
Mestiza Shop
Mestiza Shop; photo by Kathleen Hinkel

Dine on authentic Mexican cuisine
Explore the diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine at restaurants throughout the Chicago area. These spots offer an array of Latin-inspired fare, perfect for celebrating Day of the Dead or just supporting a local Hispanic-owned business.

See what else is happening in Chicago this October and start planning your trip.