Join the 6th Ave Celebration
Skeleton Sidewalk Procession on 6th Avenue - A playful spectacle that honors the Latin tradition of skeleton-
costumed characters led by musicians. Intersections will be temporarily closed for safety from 2pm to 2:30pm.
Artisan Vendor - Artists and chefs can sell their Day of the Dead creations.
Classes - Leading up to the celebration weekly classes will teach people traditional day of the dead crafts.
Mission
Our mission is to produce a free Tacoma Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) event on Sixth Avenue that
maintains and respects the cultural essence of the Día de los Muertos tradition, but also interjects a modern
aesthetic as envisioned by regional artists. Additionally, weekly themed arts and education classes will be held
in September and October, adding community participation building to the event. A day to remember the dead
and party for the living!
Art of the Community
The Día de los Muertos tradition is founded on a communal celebration of very personal perspectives on life and
death. Through hands-on community events including workshops, interactive art, our Skeleton Processional,
ofrendas and more, Tacoma Día de los Muertos Celebration provides opportunities for Tacoma residents and
visitors to work together to achieve common community goals. The celebration brings together participants of
all skill levels, ethnicities, ages and backgrounds and uses art as a tool to help develop community.
How to Get Involved?
• Attend one of our weekly themed classes centered around Día de los Muertos art and education.
• Host a class or workshop: apply to use your location as a host site.
• Donate to the event: you can donate themed items or gift cards to be distributed at event.
• Sponsor the Celebration: this is a community-driven event, and we could not do any of it without our generous
sponsors. IF you would like to support your community, think about becoming a sponsor today.
Fact Sheet
When: Saturday, October 28, 2023 - 11:00am-6:00pm
Where: TAPCO Credit Union, 2802 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98406
Why: This is the third year for this celebration. Last year our Día de los Muertos event brought thousands of
people to the 6th Avenue Business District. It increased awareness of our Spanish speaking Sister Cities and
introduced the community to a life affirming celebration with music, art and food. We will continue to cross-
promote other Día de los Muertos activities throughout Tacoma. The very first Día de los Muertos celebration
was done in 2002 at the 6th Ave Business District.
Before Event: Weekly family art and education classes starting in September into October with different activities
each week such as sugar skulls, flower crowns and more.
Day of Event: Artisan craft and food vendors. Kids craft area. Sugar Skull face painting. One stage with live Music
throughout entire event. Sidewalk Skeleton Parade at 2:00-2:30pm. At the parade everyone is invited to walk.
After parade free Champurrado and Pan de Muerto with a ceremony honoring our ancestors at 3:00pm.
Admission: Free admission to event. Artisan craft and food vendors will have items for sale.
Organization: Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is sponsored by Cienfuegos and Boca del Rio Sister Cities
and 6th Ave Business District. Tacoma Sister Cities’ mission is to promote peace through people through citizen
diplomacy, cultural education and economic development. Sixth Avenue Business District serves its members
through organized collaborative efforts to promote our sustainable vibrant community footprint.