Celebrate Life.
Embrace la tradición.
Step into a world of color, music, food and tradición at the Phoenix Zoo! Bring the whole family and join us for Día de los Muertos, a joyful celebration of life and remembrance. Spend a day at the Zoo and enjoy vibrant altars, festive performances and family-friendly activities inspired by the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos.
Event Details
Date:
November 1 , 2026
Location:
Phoenix Zoo
Time:
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Price:
Included with general admission or membership
ACTIVITIES
(CLICK TO EXPAND)
PERFORMANCES
Balle Folklorico & Mariachi performances
ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES
Arts & Crafts
LIVE MUSIC
TBA
What is Día de los Muertos?
Día de los Muertos is a cherished Mexican tradition that joyfully honors and remembers loved ones who have passed. It is a celebration of life filled with music, food, altars, and memories, recognizing the lasting bond between the living and the dead.
Typically observed on November 1 (Día de los Angelitos) to remember children and November 2 (Día de los Difuntos) to honor adults, the full tradition can span October 27 to November 3, with each day offering special remembrances from beloved pets to family members who have passed on and ancestors.
At the heart of the celebration are ofrendas (altars), carefully built with offerings like photos, candles, marigolds, favorite foods, and personal mementos to honor and welcome spirits home.
Symbols of the Season
Mexican Marigolds (Cempasúchil): Bright yellow-orange flowers believed to guide spirits with their color and scent
Sugar Skulls (Calaveras): Colorful decorated sugar skulls serving as symbols of remembrance and joy
Papel Picado: Decorative paper banners representing wind and the fragility of life
Pan de Muerto: Traditional sweet bread placed on altars (altares)
Catrinas: Elegant skeleton figures that capture the humor and beauty of life and death
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Plan your visit today!
The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., caring for over 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened/endangered species.
Plan your visit today!
The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., caring for over 3,000 animals, with nearly 400 species represented, including many threatened/endangered species.
