Free DĂa de los Muertos festival with a Mass, procession with Aztec dancers, ofrenda blessing, monarch butterfly release, folkloric dance, artisan market and food trucks.
St. Mary's Basilica hosts the 13th Annual Dia de los Muertos Festival on Sunday, November 8, from 11 AM to 5 PM. The Basilica presents the day as a celebration of life, faith, and remembrance, and it centers on a community ofrenda—an altar where you're invited to bring a photo of a loved one to add to the collective. The Basilica itself is a Phoenix Point of Pride, a historic building listed on the National Register, and it's the home for the whole day.
The program mixes cultural performances with traditional observances. It kicks off with a DĂa de los Muertos Mass at 11:30 AM, followed by a procession with Aztec dancers, a blessing of the ofrenda, the release of monarch butterflies, and Taps performed by American Legion Post 41. From there, the music takes over: Mariachi Continental Azteca plays from 1 PM to 2 PM, Ballet FolklĂłrico Quetzalli performs from 2 PM to 3 PM, and Rhythm Edition keeps things going with live music from 3 PM to 5 PM.
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Beyond the stage, there's a car show, an artisan market, and food trucks. In past years, crowds have topped 10,000, so it's a big gathering. Admission is free, thanks to sponsors Catholic Cemeteries & Funeral Homes, Dignity Health, and Food City. You're encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation for the St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank. One rule to keep in mind: no lit candles are allowed on the grounds. The festival runs from 11 AM to 5 PM at St. Mary's Basilica, 231 N. Third St., Downtown Phoenix.
