Editor’s note: The 2021 Dia de los Muertos and Marigold Mural Project have been canceled due to the pandemic. Visit tlaq.com for more information.
Now in its eleventh year, Día de Los Muertos and the Marigold Mural Project have returned as two of the biggest fall events in Sedona. Held at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, both events seek to honor and remember those who have passed. The two-part event kicks off with the Marigold Mural Project that runs from Oct. 27 to Oct. 30 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Local artist Lovejoy will paint a 26-foot mural on Calle Independencia that visitors can add their own tributes to. Past murals from previous years also will be on display. Paints and brushes will be supplied. Both events are complimentary.
Photo by Derek von Briesen
“You can come and paint something for a loved one that’s passed, a pet, grandparents, kids. There’s no limit to what you want to commemorate,” says Wendy Lippman, general manager and resident partner of Tlaquepaque. “You can come every day and leave your mark.” Following the Marigold Mural Project, the Dia de Los Muertos main celebration is slated to be held on Oct. 30 from 4 to 8 p.m. Look forward to a lively atmosphere. Attendees can anticipate live music, food, fire dancers, face painters and aerial artists. Tlaquepaque’s patios, streets and fountains will be decorated. Although not a Halloween event, attendees are encouraged to wear costumes. Children can make sugar skulls. Patrons can purchase Day of the Dead themed items at an on-site mercado. “The overall atmosphere will be extremely colorful,” says Wendy. “It’s a very visual event, it’s like eye candy. There’s so much eye candy everywhere that you’ll be amused and stimulated.”
Photo by Derek von Briesen
As far as eye candy goes, here’s what you might see: Marigolds will be everywhere. Marigolds are traditional flowers and are said to be the flowers that help the dead find their way back to Earth. Butterflies are another symbol of the holiday that will be represented throughout. Each courtyard will have décor. The church will probably have a large installation inside. Wendy tells us it’s typically of a bride and groom having an extravagant wedding. Attendees are encouraged to bring items that remind them of their past loved ones like the person’s favorite drinks or pictures on the altars throughout. There will be about a dozen installations throughout the property. Above all, Día de Los Muertos is a celebration.
“It’s a joyful way to remember those loved ones that are no longer with us. From your pet fish to your grandparents,” says Wendy. “It’s a time to celebrate and rejoice and remember.” There is a chance this event could be canceled or modified due to the pandemic. Free shuttles will be available. Visit tlaq.com to view the schedule of live entertainment and up to date information.
