Marigolds, Music, and Magic!
Get ready for a celebration of life, color, and music, Birmingham! This fall, Sloss Furnaces will come alive for the twenty-third annual Día de los Muertos celebration on Sunday, November 2. Organized by Bare Hands, Inc., the event honors the traditional Mexican holiday dedicated to celebrating and remembering loved ones who have passed.
Visitors can expect a full day of cultural experiences that blend art, food, and music in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The festival’s centerpiece is its collection of ofrendas, or memorial altars, each created to honor and remember the lives of those who have passed. Attendees are invited to contribute to a community altar by bringing a photo or memento in remembrance of someone special.
The celebration features a packed lineup of live performances, including music from Premier de America Mariachi and Grupo Retro, along with traditional dance by Danza Azteca Xochipilli. Throughout the event, visitors can also explore the artist market, which showcases handmade works such as masks, jewelry, paintings, ceramics, glasswork, and other crafts created by local and regional artists.
A variety of food trucks and dessert vendors will be on site, offering a wide selection of festival eats and treats. Families can take part in interactive art activities, designed to engage attendees of all ages and deepen their connection to the traditions of Día de los Muertos.
The day also includes a puppet-led procession and the Memorial Roll Call, a cherished part of the event where the names of loved ones are read aloud in a shared moment of remembrance.
Día de los Muertos Número 23 takes place at the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark in Birmingham, a fitting backdrop for a day that blends Birmingham’s creative spirit with the deep cultural traditions of Día de los Muertos. Tickets are $15 in advance, increasing to $20 online and at the gate starting November 2. Children 12 and under are admitted free.
Whether you come to build an altar, enjoy live music, or simply take in the art and energy of the day, this celebration offers a beautiful reminder that remembrance can be as joyful as it is meaningful.
Looking for more can’t-miss festivals and local happenings across Alabama? Check out our events calendar at guidetoalabama.com/festivals!