By: Hola America News
As autumn arrives, communities across Iowa and Nebraska are preparing to honor Día de los Muertos — the Day of the Dead — with vibrant celebrations of life, memory, and tradition. From colorful parades and art exhibits to family-friendly performances and cultural workshops, these events invite families to come together to remember loved ones and embrace the beauty of this cherished Mexican tradition. Whether through music, dance, food, or art, each gathering offers a unique way to experience the joy and meaning of Día de los Muertos while strengthening connections across generations and cultures.
If you know of any other events happening in your area, please let us know so we can add them to this list. Email us at: [email protected]
Omaha, Nebraska
La Calavera Catrina Exhibit
Dates: August 17 through November 8, 2025
Time: Open daily | 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Location:100 Boncroft Street, Omaha, NE
Explore the rich history and vibrant symbolism of La Catrina, one of the most iconic figures of Día de los Muertos. This outdoor exhibit features eight larger-than-life skeleton sculptures by Los Angeles artist Ricardo Soltero. La Catrina, with her elegant attire and joyful spirit, reminds us that death is not an end, but a celebration of life.
Cost: Included with paid garden admission | Free for garden members
More info: lauritzengardens.org
South Omaha, Nebraska
Día de los Muertos Parade
Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM–7:00 PM
Location: South 24th & M Street
Celebrate life and memory at this colorful community parade featuring traditional Catrinas and stunning horses. Bring the whole family for an unforgettable evening full of culture, tradition, and togetherness.
Cost: Free and open to the public.
Iowa City, Iowa
Exhibit of Alebrijes at the Stanley Museum of Art
Dates: October 15, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Time: Sunday, October 5, 2025 12:00pm to 3:30pm
Location: Stanley Museum of Art, 160 W Burlington St
In celebration of Latino Cultural Week, the Stanley Museum of Art at the University of Iowa invites visitors to explore a captivating exhibit of alebrijes in the Visual Lab. These vibrant Mexican folk art sculptures portray imaginative creatures that fuse elements of real and mythical animals. Expertly carved from wood and painted with intricate, colorful designs, the pieces range from lifelike animals and human figures to fantastical hybrids and elaborate three-dimensional scenes—offering something magical for all ages.
Cost: Free and open to the public
More info: stanleymuseum.uiowa.edu
Granger, Iowa
Day of the Dead Nature Program at Jester Park Nature Center
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Time: 10:30 AM–12:00 PM
Location: Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 NW 128th St.
Polk County Conservation invites families to a special Day of the Dead–themed nature program at Jester Park. Learn about the cultural significance of Día de los Muertos while exploring the natural connections to remembrance, tradition, and the cycle of life. The event includes educational activities, nature-based crafts, and time to reflect in a peaceful setting.
Cost: Free and open to all ages.
More info: www.facebook.com/jesterparknaturecenter
Quad Cities, Moline, Illinois
Día de los Muertos Stationary Parade & Market (Mercado on Fifth)
Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
At Mercado on Fifth, 423 12th Street, Moline, IL
A new twist on the traditional parade: instead of floats moving, altars and decorated displays will remain stationary around the Mercado grounds for attendees to walk through at their own pace. The event features live music (Mariachi, folklórico, Music), face painting, sugar skull decorating, paper-flower workshops, community ofrendas, and food like pan de muerto and atole. Attendees are encouraged—but not required—to wear Catrina/Catrín dress and makeup.
More info: MercadoOnFifth.org
Iowa City, Iowa
Día de los Muertos: Vigilia y Marcha por Nuestros Seres Queridos
Date: Friday, November 1, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM
Location:113 S Johnson St, Iowa City, IA
Join this heartfelt vigil and march to honor members of our community who have been detained or deported. Participants are encouraged to bring flowers, candles, and their voices to pay tribute and call for justice. This Día de los Muertos gathering offers a space for remembrance, solidarity, and collective healing while uplifting the stories of those separated from their loved ones.
More information: Eschucha Mi Voz
Papillion, Nebraska
7th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration at Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch
Date & Times: Saturday, November 1 at 11:00 AM, Sunday, November 2 at 6:00 pm Location: Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch, 2710 Bluff Point Cir, Papillion, NE
Hosted by the Mexican Cultural Center of the Heartland, this two-day celebration features live music, dance, food, art, and colorful ofrendas (altars) honoring loved ones who have passed. All are welcome! including pets to enjoy this joyful tradition that unites families and communities in remembrance. Cost: General Admission: $20 | Kids: $10
More info: www.facebook.com/BellevueBerryFarm
Davenport, Iowa
Day of the Dead Family Fiesta
Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
Location: Figge Art Museum, 225 W 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52801
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Figge Art Museum with a vibrant afternoon of culture, community, and creativity. Enjoy free museum admission, engaging exhibitions, and short films that highlight Hispanic heritage. Savor traditional foods, explore hands-on crafts in the studios, and experience dynamic live performances, including Danza Azteca Asunción and Quad City Ballet Folklorico. Learn about the rich traditions surrounding Día de los Muertos, and take a moment to honor loved ones by sharing a photo or memory. Whether you’re enjoying the music, making art, or simply soaking in the atmosphere this is a family-friendly celebration you won’t want to miss.
Cost: Free
More info: figgeartmuseum.org
Des Moines, Iowa
25th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration at the Des Moines Art Center
Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Location: Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave.
Enjoy live music and dance performances, hands-on art activities, food and art vendors, a Catrina costume showcase, and a short documentary film tribute. Free pan de muerto and Mexican hot cocoa while supplies last. The community ofrenda will be on view through November 16.This year’s event is inspired by exhibitions from Manuel Álvarez Bravo and artist-in-residence Aliza Nisenbaum, whose five new murals celebrate 25 years of Día de los Muertos at the Art Center.
Free shuttle available from Merrill Middle School during the event.
Cost: Free and open to all ages.
More info:https://desmoinesartcenter.org/event/day-of-the-dead-2025/
Des Moines, Iowa
SUGAR SKULL! A Día de Muertos Musical Adventure at the Des Moines Civic Center
Date: Saturday, November 8, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St.
Experience a vibrant, family-friendly musical that celebrates the spirit of Día de los Muertos. SUGAR SKULL! follows 12-year-old Vita Flores on a magical journey led by a lively candy skeleton to discover the true meaning of Día de Los Muertos . Featuring traditional Mexican music, dance, and storytelling, this bilingual performance is perfect for audiences of all ages.
Cost: Tickets start at $12; season packages from $24 as part of the 2025–26 Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield Family Series.
More info: dmpa.org
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