In Mexico, Día de los Muertos (“Day of the Dead”) is a bright and joyous celebration of our loved ones who have died before us. The Mexican community in Berlin has organised some wonderful events for the holiday this year, both cultural and educational. Open your minds and hearts to their traditions and join in on the festivities.
Festival Holzmarkt
This week, Holzmarkt is throwing open their gates to the dead and ready to celebrate with them. In a packed seven-day programme, everyone is welcomed to join in on Día de los Muertos traditions and honour their deceased loved ones. Partake in ceremonies and snacks, or enjoy live performances as part of this bright Mexican festival.
- Holzmarkt 25, Friedrichshain, Oct 30–Nov 5, details.
Fiesta de Día de Muertos
Celebrate life, both past and present, at the Fiesta de Día de Muertos, a special festival curated by the Humboldt Forum and Calaca e.V. Enjoy exhibitions, workshops, performances and more, all colourfully centred on the bridge between life and death.
- Humboldt Forum, Schlossplatz, Mitte, in German and Spanish, Nov 1–5, details.
Pop-up museum from Patron Tequila
This one looks quite fun. Showing over two days on November 3–4, Berlin-based Mexican artist Bianca Monroy has installed a hand crafted altar and decorated skulls for what they’re calling the “Día de Muertos Museum of PATRÓN”. It is sponsored by the tequila company, so there will be cocktails alongside a display of the deep history and craftsmanship associated with the Mexican holiday.
- Día de los Muertos Museum by PATRÓN, Torstr. 66, Mitte, November 3–4, details.
Cumbia Fest
Whether you joined in on the fun or just want to dance, help wrap up Holzmarkt’s Día de los Muertos festivities with a bash in the Säälchen. Celebrate lives gone by, and see how ancient Mexican traditions can get a modern twist. Against a fantastic backdrop of cumbia beats, both live and DJ’d, it promises to be a vibrant night.
- Säälchen at Holzmarkt, Holzmarkt 25, Friedrichshain, Nov 4, details.