Join us in our new Jazz Education Center at the New Orleans Jazz Museum to commemorate Dia de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. This UNESCO recognized and protected tradition has become a chance for people of all walks of life to recognize and celebrate their ancestors through ofrendas, or offerings, to assist them on their afterlife journey. In many cultures, this time of harvest is a cause for celebrating death and renewal; the Voodoo New Year is also celebrated between October 31st and November 1st.

In conjunction with the CONSULADO DE MÉXICO EN NUEVA ORLEÁNS / CONSULATE OF MEXICO IN NEW ORLEANS, an exhibition and altar will be open to the public Friday October 25 – Sunday November 3 from 11:00AM – 3:00PM. The exhibition is closed Monday, October 28th and on Thursday, October 31st for special school programming. Members of the consulate will create one altar and Voodoo Queen Kalindah Laveaux will set up a traditional Voodoo altar.

You are invited to contribute to a third community altar as part of the reflective remembrance.

Items that remind you of those you wish to celebrate are welcome. Museum policy does not allow the traditional fresh flowers, food or beverages on our altar. Once an item is placed on the altar, we cannot assume responsibility for your keepsakes, so we recommend copies of photos or inexpensive reminders that are not precious to you. If you leave an item that you wish to recover, please return between 12PM and 4PM on Tuesday, November 5th.

In our Performing Arts Center, Ms. Laveaux will be participating in a lecture and performance on October 31st at 2pm. The event will culminate on November 1 with a screening of Stephanie Heredia’s film Dia de los Muertos: A Celebration of Family and Life.

The altar, programs, and activities are free and open to the public.