MISSOULA — The annual Festival of the Dead is returning to Missoula for the 31st year.
The event provides a chance for people to honor loved ones who have passed and acknowledge grief. Organizers note the festival — which is inspired by traditions of Dia de los Muertos — “embraces all expressions of loss and celebration of lives lived.”
People are invited to take part in a procession down Higgins Avenue to honor loved ones lost on November 2, 2023.
“Grief can be such an isolating experience,” said Tina Barrett, Executive Director of Tamarack Grief Resource Center. “This festival shines a light on the bonds that continue after those we love are no longer walking on this earth. It gives us a chance to celebrate the life that was and brings conversations about death and grief out of the shadows.”
The events include:
- Community Altar Construction: Oct. 31-Nov. 3 in the back alley behind Confluence Center at 119 West Main Street. A local Mexican family will guide the community in the creation of a traditional Dia de los Muertos altar.
- Community Participation: Nov. 1 in the alley behind Confluence Center, Learn about the altar, its importance and how it is used. Community members are free to add to the altar with photos of lost loved ones or pets and share their favorite food, drinks, and traditions.
- Dia de los Muertos Face Painting: Nov. 2 from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. there will be free face painting at the Confluence Center. It's an activity for kids and grownups alike.
- November 2 Procession: Gather at 6 p.m. in Circle Square at the north end of Higgins Avenue. SnYelMn drum group kicks off this year’s culminating event at 6 p.m. and the procession will start at 7 p.m. It will travel down Higgins Ave. to Caras Park where there will be more performances, including the UM African Dance Class.
- Post Procession Detour: In the alley behind Confluence Center, organizers will have Latin music, traditional Mexican Dia de los Muertos dance, and nonalcoholic drinks to keep the spirits high. We encourage the community to participate in this lively cultural experience for all and showcase how alleys can be special spaces too.
- First Friday @ Confluence Center: Gather and visit the community-built altar on Nov. 3 at the Confluence Center parking lot. Inside the center, feel free to view art and partake in refreshments.
Learn more about the event at https://www.facebook.com/Missoula.Festival.ofthe.Dead/.
