💀 Tacoma Art Museum's Free Día de los Muertos Festival Returns Sunday, November 1

One of Tacoma's most meaningful traditions is back this weekend. Tacoma Art Museum's 22nd annual Día de los Muertos Festival fills the museum Sunday, November 1, from 10 AM to 5 PM, and admission is free.

Día de los Muertos honors loved ones who have died, and the festival centers on community ofrendas, or altars, and a tapete, a large sand painting by artist René Julio. Performances include Mictlantecuhtli Danza at 11 AM and 3 PM, Mariachi Real de Seattle at noon, and SL Cultura Project Ballet Folklórico at 2 PM.

Plan for some hands-on time too. Mini tapete and mini ofrenda workshops are first come, first served, with sign-up at the museum. Food trucks will be outside, and there's a 21+ beer garden if the weather cooperates.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is marking the holiday as well. Its Ofrenda, built with students from Tacoma's Science and Math Institute, honors animals that have meant something to people, wild or domestic. Bring a photo of a pet or a favorite animal to add to the altar, October 31 to November 2.

Details:

• TAM festival: Sunday, November 1, 10 AM to 5 PM, Tacoma Art Museum, 1701 Pacific Ave

• Cost: free, with a timed arrival slot reserved online ($50 contribution suggested, not required); walk-ups can register on site for the next open slot

• Zoo Ofrenda: October 31 to November 2, 9 AM to 3:30 PM, free with zoo admission or membership

• Parking: free but limited in the lot behind the museum

Real estate note: a festival in its 22nd year says a lot about a city. Traditions like this one, anchored by a museum in the heart of downtown, are part of why Tacoma keeps drawing people who want culture and community close to home.