Lifestyles
Annual Día de los Muertos Festival returns to Downtown Garland November 1 for a cultural celebration of life, love, and tradition
By City of Garland
Oct 30, 2025
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Free - Saturday, November 1, 2–8 p.m., Downtown Garland

Garland, Texas -- The City of Garland invites everyone to experience the color, culture, and community of Día de los Muertos on Saturday, November 1, from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. in Downtown Garland during a free cultural celebration honoring the cherished Mexican tradition of The Day of the Dead through art, music, and family-friendly activities that celebrate life and remembrance.

Visitors will enjoy a full day of performances including Mariachi, Ballet Folklorico, and a live concert by Latin Fusion band Quimikoz, bringing vibrant Latin rhythms to the Downtown Square.

Festival highlights include:

  • Free screening of Disney’s “Coco” — a heartwarming family favorite.

  • Juried art exhibition and more than 150 altar displays at the Granville Arts Center.

  • Lowrider car show presented by Dallas Lowriders CC.

  • Mercado and food trucks, offering authentic cuisine, crafts, and souvenirs.

  • Community altar where visitors are encouraged to bring a 4x6 photo of a loved one to be displayed as part of this meaningful collective tribute at the Granville Arts Center.

  • A Catrin/Catrina Contest will celebrate La Catrina, an iconic Día de los Muertos symbol. Adults and children dress in elaborate costumes to embody the character. Prizes will be awarded for creativity and authenticity. 

“Día de los Muertos is a beautiful celebration of culture and connection,” said Veronica Maldonado, Marketing Communications Manager for Visit Garland. “We’re proud to share this experience in a city that reflects the richness and diversity of Texas.”

The event is bilingual (English and Spanish) and designed for all ages. Downtown Garland’s walkable footprint, creative energy, and authentic food scene make it the perfect backdrop for this vibrant day of music, art, and community.

Visitors from the greater Dallas-Fort Worth region and surrounding areas are invited to extend their stay and explore Garland's growing arts district, dine at local restaurants, explore Garland’s music scene, and discover its heritage as the Hat Capital of Texas. Celebrate this legacy by posing for photos with the city's new "Big Hat," a larger-than-life hat sculpture that's perfect for selfies and group shots. This iconic piece pays tribute to Garland's craftsmanship and Texas style, honoring legendary makers like Resistol and Milano Hat Company.

Event Details
Saturday, November 1, 2025
2 – 8 p.m.
Downtown Garland, Texas
Free Admission
www.visitgarlandtx.com/dia-garland