Celebrate Day of the Dead in Atlanta
Last Updated October 26, 2026
Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s largest celebrations honoring those who have passed away. It’s an ancient Aztec custom that celebrates life, with dead ancestors as the guests of honor. It’s like a joyful family reunion.
Día de Muertos celebrations include music, colorful calaveras and calacas, sugar skulls, flowers and all the things that remind families of their ancestors. Vibrant altars are displayed, folkloric dances are performed and traditional foods like “pan de muerto” are shared.
Although it is a Mexican tradition, the celebration takes place all over Latin America and the United States. Atlanta’s diverse communities share the tradition with friends and neighbors as an important piece of culture.
Here are ways to participate in the festivities.
Day of the Dead at Oakland Cemetery
The traditional Day of the Dead festival hosted by the Consulate General of Mexico and the Institute of Mexican Culture will take place at the iconic Oakland Cemetery on Nov. 1. Visitors of all ages will learn about and experience a Day of the Dead festival through traditional activities such as folkloric dances, crafts, food and altars honoring deceased family and friends. Dress up for the occasion and participate in the catrinas and catrines contest for adults and kids. Registration will take place on the day of the festival.
When: Nov. 1, 2026, noon to 5 p.m.
Where: Oakland Cemetery
Woodruff Arts Center
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra is hosting a day of fun, music and culture for the family. The free festival will include live music, traditional dancers, ofrendas, stilt walkers, photo booths, food trucks and a children’s area.
When: Nov. 1, 2026, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Woodruff Arts Center
El Ponce “Día de los Muertos Celebration”
El Ponce throws a Day of the Dead party for a whole week, making sure the day is unforgettable. Cocktails, food, music and tradition are part of the agenda from Oct. 25 through Nov. 2. Reservations can be made online.
When: Oct. 25-Nov. 2, 2026
Where: El Ponce, 939 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
Stories at 7th House
7th House, located in Adair Park, is hosting a special night full of tradition, art, poetry and spoken words, to honor and remember those who have passed. The celebration includes an altar, and guests are encouraged to bring a picture of a loved one to add to it. Reservations are required.
When: Nov. 3, 2026, 6 p.m.
Where: 565 Northside Dr SW
Día de Muertos Fest: Immersive Cultural Experience
The Día de Muertos Festival at Plaza Las Americas honors loved ones who have passed with vibrant traditions including altars, marigolds, music, dance and traditional foods. It’s a beautiful tribute to life, memory and cultural heritage.
When: Nov. 1, 2026, 12-8 p.m.
Where: Plaza Las Americas, 733 Pleasant Hill Road, Lilburn
A Run for the Dead
Bar Ana, Los Corridos – an Atlanta-based Latine run club – and Recuerdos Cafe, are partners in hosting another way to celebrate Day of the Dead: running. The run begins at 9 a.m., with a 3-mile run and a 1-mile run or walk option. DJ Bruja will set the vibes, and a merch drop will be announced in collaboration with La Papeleria Ink. Pan de Muerto will be available for purchase from At Heart Panaderia.
When: Nov. 1, 2026, starting at 9 a.m.
Where: 939 Ponce de Leon Ave
Día de Muertos at Mendoza
The Latina-owned coffee shop and wine bar in downtown Atlanta will host a big celebration for the Day of the Dead on Oct. 31. Food, drinks, ballet folklorico and an altar are part of the night, along with local vendors with handmade goods, art, cultural products and accessories. Tickets are available online.
When: Oct. 31, 2026
Where: Mendoza Cafe y Vino, 426 Marietta St NW
El Super Pan’s Day of the Dead and Catrinas Brunch
Celebrate Day of the Dead at El Super Pan’s special brunch. Pozole, pan de muerto and specialty drinks are on deck for the ocassion. The celebration will take place at The Battery location.
When: Nov. 1, 2026, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: El Super Pan at The Battery Atlanta
Casi Cielo’s Extraordinary Night
Both Casi Cielo locations, Sandy Springs and the Beltline, come alive for Día de Muertos. On Nov. 2, both restaurants will have music, specialty cocktails, entertainment and more traditional surprises. Reservations available online.
When: Nov. 2, 2026
Where: Sandy Springs, 6125 Roswell Rd; Beltline, 405 N Angier Ave NE
Celebrate Día de Muertos throughout Atlanta. Check out our calendar of events and stay up to date on opportunities to live and learn the traditions.
Daniela Cintrón is an award-winning journalist, editor and producer passionate about storytelling at the intersection of food, art, and culture. She is the senior content manager and editor for Discover Atlanta and has contributed to publications like the Los Angeles Times, Atlanta Magazine and Eater.
Originally Published October 15, 2025
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