Event Summary

Día de Muertos is back at the Desert Botanical Garden with a beautiful community altar, a colorful procession, food, music and more. Starting on November 1st, a community altar focusing on the legend of the Cempasúchil flower (marigold) and the story of Xóchitl and Huitzilin will be on display in Ottosen Gallery.

On Día de Muertos, the scent of the Cempasúchil flower is believed to guide the souls of the deceased to the offering waiting for them in the world of the living.

The ofrenda exhibit tells the romantic tale of Xóchitl and Huitzilin through dramatic visuals, including monumental flower sculptures and handcrafted silver hummingbirds made by artisans from Taxco de Alarcón.

Additionally, the deconstructed altar design will showcase the ceramic artwork of Oaxacan artist Rufina Ruiz Lopez. Visitors are encouraged to place memories and wishes for loved ones on the ofrenda.

Altar On View: Nov. 1-3 | Festival: Nov. 2-3 | This event is free with garden admission.

Check out the Desert Botanical Garden website for additional details.

For more information on events in Tempe, visit our Tempe Events Page.