NY | Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

About this event

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a time for honoring the cycle of life, and remembering our ancestors and those who have gone before us. Learn about the ofrenda (altar) and commemorate a loved one who has passed by leaving a photo or memento. Families can enjoy coloring activities and making paper marigolds and butterfly masks. Visitors of all ages can enjoy traditional dance performances by New York-based Aztec dance group Cetiliztli Nauhcampa. Performances begin at 12 PM and 3 PM.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Level 1: Hallway and Diker Pavilion

12 PM and 3 PM | Dance Performances by Cetiliztli Nauhcampa New York-based Aztec dance group Cetiliztli Nauhcampa will present traditional dances around the community ofrenda to honor ancestors.

11 AM-4 PM | Ongoing Activities

Hands On: Lotería! | Level 1, imagiNATIONS Activity Center Classroom A popular game played in Mexico, Lotería is similar to the game of bingo. Our version will introduce you to the colorful world of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or new to the game, our bilingual (Spanish/English) Lotería highlights the different elements related to the celebration, such as plants, animals, people, and activities, in a fun and easy way to learn. All are welcome! *Visitors age 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult caregiver.

Hands On: Paper Marigolds Marigolds, or cempasúchitl, serve a special purpose during Día de los Muertos celebrations. Their petals are used to create a path between the cemetery and the family home. Make your own tissue-paper marigold to take home or create a garland to adorn a nine-foot-tall La Catrina, the iconic skeleton fashionista that has become a symbol of Día de los Muertos .

Hands On: Butterfly Masks Monarch butterflies are a common symbol used in Día de los Muertos celebrations. Get creative and color your own monarch butterfly mask. Paper masks and markers will be provided.

Hands On: Plaster Skulls Use markers to color your own plaster skull or skeleton to take home! Plaster skulls will have a loop or magnet so they can be used for decorations.

Memory Cards Write a memory card for a loved one to place on the ofrenda (altar). Memory cards and pens will be provided.

Museum Ofrenda This temporary display honors those who have passed on with photographs or personal effects of the deceased accompanied by flowers, candles, religious icons, water, salt, and an array of food and drink.