From traditional ceremonies to family-friendly fun, DODFest offers something for everyone. Here's what to expect at this year's festival.
The heart of DODFest. Community members, families, schools, and organizations build elaborate ofrendas (altars) to honor their loved ones. Each altar tells a unique story through marigold flowers, photographs, favorite foods, and meaningful objects.
Elegantly adorned Catrinas — people dressed in the iconic Day of the Dead style, with elaborate costumes, face paint and accessories — compete by category, with a division of their own for children. A jury scores every Catrina, and so do you.
Car clubs and owners roll in with ofrendas built right into their cars — trunk altars, hood murals, a shrine on wheels. Part car show, part act of remembrance.
Two stages featuring continuous performances throughout the festival. Mariachi, Ballet Folklórico, conjunto norteño, poetry, Aztec drums, and closing concerts.
Learn the traditional art of creating marigold flower arrangements. In Day of the Dead tradition, marigolds guide the spirits of the dead back to the living world. Take home your creation!
Browse handcrafted goods from local artisans: Talavera pottery, alebrijes (folk art creatures), embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, sugar skull decorations, and more.
A dedicated space for children with age-appropriate activities: sugar skull decorating, paper marigold making, face painting, storytelling sessions, and interactive cultural education.
A shared ofrenda for the whole community. Send a portrait of someone you remember and, once it is reviewed, it joins the community altar’s screen at the festival — beside everyone else’s loved ones.
Want the full timing? Check the complete schedule.
