October 26, 2024 10:00AM-4:00PM CultureFest! Día de los Muertos at Penn Museum

 

It's Hispanic Heritage Month, and we are getting ready for one of our most anticipated events of the year. Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a lively holiday blending Indigenous Mexican beliefs and traditions with the Catholic celebrations of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. CultureFest! returns with a full-day of fun for the whole family, including an arts activity, altar competition, artisan market, dance and music performances, and an enormous traditional ofrenda (altar) installation by the Mexican Cultural Center.

Ofrendas honor and welcome deceased loved ones back to the living world during Día de los Muertos. Marvel at the monumental ofrenda (altar) created by artists José Martín Anguiano Hermosillo and Maria Felix. Check out the submissions to the Mexican Cultural Center’s community altar contest and vote for your favorite. Winners will be announced at 3:20 pm.

Music:

Esmeralda LaCor
11 am
Proud Mariachi performer Esmeralda LaCor showcases her violin skills. In a mariachi ensemble, the violin plays a crucial role in delivering the melody, either in unison or harmony within the violin section.

Juntas Chicas
11:45 am & 2 pm
Juntas Chicas blend son jarocho, rancheras, and norteño with jazz, cumbia, and flamenco, resulting in a captivating musical tapestry that celebrates diverse musical traditions while exploring exciting new territories.

Dance and Entertainment;

Payaso Bombin
12:30 pm
Mexico has a rich circus heritage, and payasos, or clowns, are central to this tradition. Payaso Bombin provides delightful entertainment for all ages.

Ballet Folklorico Yaretzi
1:20 pm
This Norristown-based dance ensemble takes you on a vibrant journey through Mexico with a mix of traditional dance styles, colorful costumes, and impressive choreography.

3:00 pm
Sample pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and decadent hot chocolate, traditional ceremonial offerings of Día de los Muertos.

All day
Stop by the Asia Galleries anytime for make-and-take art activities and a marketplace.

Free with museum admission (members free)

Penn Museum

3260 South Street

Philadelphia, PA  19104

215-898-4000