The sixth annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Festival, which celebrates the memory of deceased loved ones, attracts crowds upwards of 10,000 people to St. Mary’s Basilica, a Phoenix Point of Pride and historic building listed on the National Register. This family-friendly event in downtown Phoenix is free to the public. A donation of non-perishable food is suggested to benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank.

All are invited to experience the art of life, faith, and remembrance with catrinas, mariachi, ballet folklorico, a local artisan market, free kids’ activities, a low-rider car show, and ofrendas (altars that honor the memory of ancestors). There will also be food trucks and live entertainment by the Power Drive Band. Local artists will create community ofrendas on which the public is welcome to place 5X7 photos (copies, not originals) of their deceased loved ones. Complimentary paper frames will be provided, and devotional candles to set on the altars will be available for purchase.