Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead

Event Details

Join us for the Des Moines Art Center’s 2023 Day of the Dead celebration, Unidos Por Deportes (United by Sports), which pays homage to the integral role that organized sports play in Mexican communities throughout Iowa. This festive, free, family event features hands-on art activities, traditional food, music, sports demonstrations, and an ofrenda showcasing the achievements and contributions of local Latinx athletes.

From baseball and basketball to boxing and soccer, organized sports foster pride and resilience in our vibrant community. Join us to experience a unique fusion of culture and athletics, honoring the past, embracing the present, and celebrating the unity that will help us move into the future.

Event Schedule and Vendors:
Food and drink available from Tangerine at the Art Center, Tamales Industry, Tullpa Restaurant, Monarca Paletas, and Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure

11 am – 3 pm
Music from The Juan and Only Trio
DeeJay Lizz
Art making activities
Ofrenda on view in the Macomber Lobby
Memory Wall on view in the Kelly Auditorium Lobby

11:30 am
Processional begins in the Macomber Lobby

12 pm and 2:30 pm
Honoree Film by Vince Valdez

1 pm and 1:45 pm
Salsa Lessons by Des Moines Ballroom

Take advantage of easy parking and a free shuttle from Merrill Middle School, running continuously from 11 am to 3 pm.

Support for this event is provided by:

This event is free, and no registration is required. This event will be documented with photography.