Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village will once again come alive with color, culture, and heartfelt remembrance as it hosts its 11th annual Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration on November 1, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. These free, family-friendly events invite visitors to experience one of Sedona’s most cherished fall traditions. Día de los Muertos, a sacred Mexican holiday, honors the memory of departed loved ones through art, music, dance, and food.
At Tlaquepaque, this timeless celebration is woven into the fabric of its cobblestone courtyards and stucco walls, creating a unique atmosphere where remembrance and festivity go hand in hand. Rooted in both pre-Hispanic and Catholic traditions, the holiday is best known for its beautifully decorated altars, or ofrendas, adorned with marigolds, sugar skulls, candles, food, and personal mementos.
Throughout the village, visitors will encounter glowing installations, including hand-crafted papier-mâché Catrinas, traditional music, and decorated altars placed with care across the courtyards. The heart of the celebration beats strongest in Patio del Norte, where a community altar invites guests to bring photos and mementos of their own loved ones, adding to the deeply personal nature of the day.
A highlight of the event is the Marigold Mural Project, an interactive community art experience led by artist Lovejoy of Lovejoy Creations. Set up along Calle Independencia, the 26-foot mural offers a space for attendees to paint names, messages, and symbols in honor of those who have passed. Beginning on October 30 and continuing through the event day, the mural becomes a growing tapestry of memory and color.
“It’s incredibly touching to see people write the names of those dear to them,” General Manager and Partner Wendy Lippman said. “It’s a moving tribute and a creative way to remember those we’ve lost.”
Past years’ murals will also be on display throughout Tlaquepaque North and South, reminding visitors of the community’s ongoing connection to this powerful tradition. Live entertainment will fill every corner of the village on November 1, with performances from Mariachi Rubor, Ballet Folklórico de Colores, Mosaico Flamenco, and Urban Electra, among others.
The music will range from traditional mariachi and flamenco guitar to electric string quartets, adding a dynamic rhythm to the day. Guests can also enjoy sugar skull decorating, face painting by Gabby & Cindi, and explore a vibrant array of Day of the Dead-themed art and merchandise at artisan booths throughout the venue.
Food is an essential part of Día de los Muertos, and Tlaquepaque will serve up authentic flavors from local favorites like El Rincon Restaurante and Tamaliza, offering tamales, taquitos, churros, pan de muerto, and Mexican hot chocolate – perfect for a fall afternoon spent among the marigolds.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village has been a cornerstone of Sedona’s cultural life for over 45 years. Modeled after a traditional Mexican village and nestled beneath the sycamores along Oak Creek, it remains a haven for art, music, food, and community.
The Day of the Dead celebration is yet another way this beloved destination honors heritage while creating space for connection and creativity. For more information, visit tlaq.com.
