New at NYBG this year, marigold beds, artfully arranged calaveras and a larger-than-life Catrina covered in flowers bring Día de los Muertos traditions to the garden amid fall foliage and pumpkins. You can add a photo or memory of a loved one to the community ofrenda, then catch son jarocho sets by the collective Son Pecadores. If you want a colorful, family-friendly fall outing, head to the Bronx.
What to expect
Spirit guides lead you through marigold displays to the Catrina and calaveras, with a communal altar where visitors leave photographs and written memories. On weekends, Bronx-based artist Blanka Amezkua teaches papel picado and silk-flower making, and live Mexican folk music plays near the Everett Children's Adventure Garden.
Good to know
- Items left on the community ofrenda become part of the installation and are not returned
- Food and candle offerings are not permitted on the altar
- Metro-North's Harlem Line stops at Botanical Garden station across from the entrance
- Craft workshops and music happen on weekends, so plan a weekend visit for the full program
- Pair it with Flower Power's final weeks in the Haupt Conservatory
Going? Keep it.
The whole weekend, in one email.
Friday at 5pm, one email. Unsubscribe anytime.
Common questions
Can I add something to the ofrenda?
Yes. NYBG invites visitors to add a photograph or written memory; items become part of the installation, and food and candles are not permitted.
Is there live music?
Yes. NYBG lists son jarocho folk music sets on weekends near the Everett Children's Adventure Garden entrance.
