The New York Botanical Garden is honoring Mexico’s beloved tradition of Día de los Muertos for the very first time this fall, with a radiant month-long celebration of memory, life, and renewal running October 3 through November 2, 2026.
Thousands of marigolds and dahlias paint the Garden in the holiday’s signature golds and oranges. Visitors stroll a joyful trail through the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, guided by friendly alebrijes — the vibrant spirit-guide creatures of Mexican folk art — toward encounters with artfully arranged calaveras and a larger-than-life Catrina adorned with fresh flowers.
At the heart of the celebration stands a grand, multi-tiered community ofrenda where guests can place photographs and written memories of their loved ones. The top tiers were curated by Blanka Amezkua, a Bronx artist originally from Mexico, while the lower tiers are open for everyone to add their own personal tributes throughout the season.
Weekend programming keeps the spirit festive with live music, dance performances, and hands-on workshops where families can craft silk flowers and traditional papel picado banners. The festivities culminate in a grand finale weekend featuring a Día de los Muertos parade on Sunday, November 1 at 2 p.m., plus cultural activities, food offerings, and communal remembrance among the golden foliage of fall.
Photo: Marlon Co/NYBG
