Houston Zoo Celebrates Día De Los Muertos 💀
As you stroll through the zoo this fall with decorations glowing around, you’ll be greeted with an arch decorated with vibrant flowers and skulls designed with beautiful patterns. Colorful papel picado (traditional Mexican paper banners) flutter from above the arch, as it welcomes you with more decorated skulls surrounding around. If you ever wondered what these decorations represent and why they are part of this celebration, then we’re here to share the meaning and traditions behind Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) at Houston Zoo!
What is Día de los Muertos?
Happening from Sunday, Nov.1 to Monday, Nov.2, Día de los Muertos is an ancient tradition that celebrates the lives of the departed through vibrant and and decorated ofrendas (altars) which includes joyful remembrances with offerings to welcome their spirits home on these days. This is a Latin American tradition that stems from ancient Mexican and Central American indigenous practices that traces its earliest roots to the Aztec people. Although this tradition is celebrated throughout Mexico and other Latin American countries, it’s gaining widespread popularity in the United States. Dia de los Muertos is an opportunity to provide a joyful and sacred space to honor deceased loved ones and to maintain a continuing connection with ancestors.
Día de los Muertos at Houston Zoo
Everyone is welcome to partake in this meaningful celebration here at Houston Zoo. We invite you to join us on Sunday, Nov.1 from 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Monday, Nov.2 from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. for our Día de los Muertos Celebration. At the heart of this tradition is our own traditional ofrenda (altar) to honor animals who are no longer with us. We encourage you to bring a photo of a cherished animal and create a keepsake frame that you can take home or add to our Zoo’s ofrenda. Plus, on Sunday, Nov. 1, you’ll get the chance to see La Catrina, an iconic and the most recognizable symbol of Día de los Muertos. There will also be special treats like our Dìa de los Muertos tamales and sugar skull cookies available for purchase. Celebrate your loved ones with us here at Houston Zoo. 💚
This event is included with general admission and is FREE for members.
