On Sunday, October 31, 2021 Austinites joined Waterloo Greenway and Frida Friday ATX for an unforgettable Día De Los Muertos celebration at Waterloo Park, presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka and PNC Bank!
The free community celebration kicked off with a vibrant, traditional dance by Danza Azteca Guadalupana de Austin that welcomed park guests and invited departed loved ones to join in the day’s festivities.
Visitors explored Frida Friday ATX’s signature outdoor marketplace featuring dozens of local artists and vendors scattered throughout the Love, Tito’s Lawn at Moody Amphitheater. Park goers also enjoyed electrifying performances by DJ Chorizo Funk, Mariachi Las Coronelas, La Murga de Austin, Ballet Folklorico de Austin, Tiarra Girls, Los TexManiacs, and DJ Zetroc!
The Meredith Heritage Tree Deck came to life with a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the day. Children participated in hands-on sugar skull decorating with the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center and enjoyed storytime with Austin-based taco journalist, Mando Rayo, reading “Vitamina T for Tacos,” a children’s book he co-wrote with Suzanne García-Mateus.
In addition, local artist and florist, Yliana Lara of Florecita, transformed the Lebermann Plaza into a stunning community altar where visitors were invited to place photos and offerings to honor family members and friends who have passed.
This event was made possible by the support of Waterloo Greenway’s Opening Season Partners, with the many artists and vendors helping to honor Día De Los Muertos and build cultural, musical, and social bridges through collective art making, live performances, and contributions to a locally-centered artisanal mercado.
Photos by Suzanne Cordeiro