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Day of the Dead events and celebrations in Madison

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Day of the Dead celebration at Garver Feed Mill | Photo by @communityaltarproject

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It’s the beginning of November, which means its also the beginning of Día de los Muertos — also known as Day of the Dead — celebrations. This holiday is celebrated on the 1st and 2nd of November in remembrance of the departed not only in Mexico but in many parts of North America as well. It’s a 3,000 year old tradition from indigenous Mexican culture, where the dead come back to visit the living and share drinks, food + music.

Excited to eat all the pan de muerto + visit an ofrenda or two in Madison? Check out these Día de los Muertos events happening around the city today and throughout the week.

Events

  • Día de los Muertos celebración | Mon., Nov. 1-Tues., Nov. 2 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Centro Hispano, 810 W. Badger Rd. | Free | Celebrate with traditional offerings + visit the Centro Hispano community altar.
  • Community Altar Project | Mon., Nov. 1-Mon., Nov. 15 | Overture Center | Free | Stop by to see handmade shadow box altars made in memory of loved ones throughout the community.
  • Virtual Altar Project | Fri., Nov. 12 | 5-9 p.m. | Garver Feed Mill | Free | Celebrate Day of the Dead traditions with UW-Madison by viewing the community-submitted pictures and videos on a large scale outdoor projection.
  • Story Sharing and Celebration | Mon., Nov. 8 | 6 p.m. | Overture Center | Free | Join local altar creators as they share stories to honor their ancestors and loved ones.

Bakeries offering Day of the Dead food

  • Monona Bakery and Eatery | 4544 Monona Dr. | Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. (closed Tues.), Sat., 8 a.m.-8 p.m. + Sun., 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
  • Pan & Pan Bakery | 3559 E. Washington Ave. | Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-9 p.m. + Sun., 8a.m.-8:30 p.m.
  • La Concha Bakery | 3054 Fish Hatchery Rd., Fitchburg | Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-10 p.m. + Sun., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.