Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, comes at a time when the border between the spirit world and our corporeal realm is believed to grow thin and the dead walk among us once more. Not in a Halloween horror movie way. Not in a bone-chattering skeletons, ghosts floating through walls, fog-and-rain kind of way.
No, this is a holiday about remembrance. It’s a celebration of those who are no longer with us, covered in marigolds, centered around ofrendas and capped with a little pan de muerto.
Each November 1 and 2, families get together to honor their loved ones—those they knew and others they’ve heard only stories. They welcome their souls back to our world, create colorful calaveras and dedicate a couple of days to the memory of those who have come before them.
Throughout Milwaukee, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday, with everything from a 5K to authentic ofrendas at Latino Arts, Inc., and beyond. Here’s where to go to celebrate Día de los Muertos this year.
- Mitchell Park Domes
- Recurring daily
Step inside the iconic Show Dome reimagined as a crystalline pyramid filled with the wonders of ancient Egypt, interpreted through a vibrant horticultural display. Chrysanthemums, marigolds and papyrus create a lush seasonal oasis. Sculptural artifacts and Egyptian-inspired…
Kick off the spooky season at Betty BOO’s Spooktacular! Join the Betty Brinn Children's Museum for a full day of fright-free family fun inspired by creatures of the night. Meet real owls from Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, learn about bats and nocturnal animals, enjoy Silly…
- Recurring every week day
This 2026 Día de los Muertos celebration invites our community to experience the beauty, depth, and vibrancy of this cherished cultural tradition. We will present stunning, authentic ofrendas, traditional altars that honor loved ones whose memories continue to guide and inspire…
Explore the history and cultural significance of corn, wheat, and sacred foods through an engaging panel discussion. Includes light lunch. Celebrate Day of the Dead with Lunch & Learn at Latino Arts! Day of the Dead is a celebration layered with history, tradition, and…
Explore the history and cultural significance of corn, wheat, and sacred foods through an engaging panel discussion. Includes light lunch. Celebrate Day of the Dead with Lunch & Learn at Latino Arts! Day of the Dead is a celebration layered with history, tradition, and…
As the weather shifts, warm up with hot coffee and fresh churros while exploring our 2026 Día de los Muertos exhibits. Let our Managing Artistic Director, Jacobo Lovo, guide you on a gallery tour and discussion surrounding our Day of the Dead Ofrendas exhibit. Enjoy learning more…
Create your own custom calavera while enjoying wine and tapas in a relaxed, social setting. Celebrate Day of the Dead with Pinto con Tinto at Latino Arts! Enjoy a creative and festive workshop painting life size skulls in celebration of Día de los Muertos, a tradition honoring…
Milwaukee Domes Alliance is hosting its annual Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at the Mitchell Park Domes. Día de los Muertos is a joyful celebration of life that takes place each November 1st and 2nd. The…
Get ready for Milwaukee’s most vibrant celebration! The 15th Annual Latino Family Expo & Festival is coming on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 11 AM to 6 PM at South Division High School (1515 W. Lapham Blvd). This is a day you absolutely can’t miss! Experience electrifying…