Tucson Presidio Museum

Dia de los Muertos Ofrendas

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Día de los Muertos at the Presidio Museum

Friday, October 23 – Sunday, November 8

Dia de los Muertos

Originating in central southern Mexico, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a celebration welcoming back the dead, who visit with friends and family during the holiday.  Celebrants believe that at midnight on Oct. 31, the souls of deceased children come to visit with their families.  They stay through November 1.  The souls of deceased adults visit on November 2.  Altars are set up to welcome the deceased with their favorite foods, games, photos of the deceased and other favorites.

Ofrenda Exhibition
Saturday, October 24 – Sunday, November 8

The Presidio Museum will have several ofrendas (altars) on display for the public to enjoy. Learn about the origins of Día de los Muertos and what goes into building an ofrenda.

Build An Ofrenda For the Exhibition

Community participants are invited to create ofrendas for the exhibition. The deadline to turn in the application is Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.

Ofrenda Opening Reception with Tucson-Mexico Sister Cities
Friday, October 23, 5 pm – 8 pm 

Join us for a sneak peek of the Día de los Muertos Ofrenda Exhibition and stay for a lecture by Dr. Luis Coronado Guel on the traditions and symbolism of Dia de los Muertos. 

$10 members / $13 non-members. Registration coming soon!