Thank you to everyone who came out to Día de los Muertos, presented by Siete Family Foods, at Waterloo Park on Friday, November 1. Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, long observed in Mexico, is a holiday now embraced globally with countless community activities that honor departed loved ones.
Throughout the evening, thousands of visitors gathered around the Moody Amphitheater stage, which was transformed into a community “ofrenda,” or altar, by local Tejano florist, Jose Arrieta Hinojos of Teoxochitl Designs. Bursting with color, the ofrenda was filled with traditional bright orange marigolds and gorgeous floral arrangements of pink, purple, and deep red hues. Large-scale seed art pieces accompanied each section of the ofrenda, reflecting the time and energy often dedicated to this special day of remembrance. The ofrenda, supported by LALO Tequila, was an open invitation for all to contribute their own memories, traditions, and love. Visitors brought photos of their loved ones, as well as favorite beverages, foods, and other mementos that were specific to their memories.
The vibrant ofrenda created the perfect setting for outstanding performances throughout the evening, starting with DJ Manny Mo, and followed by Ballet Folklorico MariCruz, Mariachi Corazon de Tejas, and Danza Azteca Guadalupana. Supported by PNC Bank, the music and dance performances held the audience in awe and inspired reflection and celebration throughout the evening.
Designed by artist Ernest Ramirez and supported by Love, Tito’s, the Alebrije Altar invited visitors to remember beloved animal companions with photos, flowers, and mementos. “Alebrijes” are spirit guides represented in Mexican folk art as vibrant, fantastical creatures that often resemble dragons, lizards, and other mystical creatures.
Families hugged close, Mexican flags waved in the crowd, and a diverse audience was mesmerized by the artistry on display throughout the evening, not only on stage, but also spread across the amphitheater lawn at the Mercado y Más artisan marketplace. Visitors made multiple rounds, exploring booths featuring dozens of Latinx-owned businesses and local creatives, shopping for candles, dresses, artwork, greeting cards, and so much more.
Children at the event especially enjoyed themselves! Supported by St. David’s Foundation, the crafting area was abuzz with creativity and hands-on activities including face-painting, paper flowers, picture frames, and more.
Other popular activities at the event included taking selfies with attendees who came in full Día de los Muertos traditional costumes and face paint, eating food from the wide array of local vendors, and enjoying the beautiful fall evening under the stars.
From everyone at Waterloo Greenway, thank you for joining us for this beautiful event, celebrating the memory of loved ones, being inspired by artful performances, and supporting local artists who cultivate community, creativity, and joy right here in Austin.
Special thanks to all of our incredible local artists, performers, vendors, and sponsors for helping bring the Día de los Muertos celebration to life. Waterloo Greenway’s Día de los Muertos was presented by Siete Family Foods, and sponsored by LALO Tequila and PNC Bank, with additional support from BCL of Texas, Delta Air Lines, Downtown Austin Alliance, Liquid Death, the Powell Foundation, St. David’s Foundation, Texas Gas Service, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Waterloo Sparkling Water.
Media Coverage Highlights:
Austin Culture Map: 9 Ways to Honor the Departed at Día de los Muertos Celebrations in Austin
Austin Vida: Where to Celebrate Día de los Muertos 2024 in Austin
Austin Chronicle: Día de los Muertos Presented by Siete Family Foods
CBS Austin: Experience heartwarming traditions at Waterloo Park’s Day of the Dead event
Austin Latino: Creek Show | Se inauguró y estará abierto al público hasta el 16 de Noviembre