Day of the Dead Family Day set for Nov. 1 at Illinois State Museum

The annual Día de los Muertos event celebrates and honors the memories of loved ones

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Museum (ISM) will host a Day of the Dead Family Day from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1, featuring arts and crafts, community partner tables, musical performances and food. The museum's annual "Ofrenda" exhibition, celebrating Día de los Muertos, will also be open for viewing.

"Day of the Dead has become an annual tradition at ISM," said Jenn Edginton, ISM director. "It's an opportunity for Illinoisians to come together to learn more about Latine culture and celebrations through experiencing them firsthand."

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Latin American holiday observed Nov. 1-2 that celebrates and honors deceased loved ones. Traditions often include ofrendas, or altars, as well as music, food and joyful gatherings.

"Day of the Dead celebrates and honors the spirits of our loved ones," said Corinne Claycomb, ISM curator of art and history education. "It allows us to connect with the people who helped shape our lives and pay tribute to their accomplishments, their individual stories, and what made them so special. It commemorates the cycle of life and the interconnectedness of our identities and memories."

The program is supported in part by the Illinois State Museum Society.

About the Illinois State Museum

Established in 1877, the Illinois State Museum is a dynamic institution that inspires the exploration of Illinois' past and present to inform and enrich everyday life and promote stewardship of cultural and natural resources. Headquartered in Springfield with branch facilities in Lewistown and Lockport, ISM is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a proud member of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience.