El Día de los Muertos at Cheekwood

Cheekwood's annual El Día de los Muertos festival celebrates the rich traditions of Mexico and Latin America right here in Nashville. This vibrant two-day event features authentic cultural experiences including traditional music and dance performances, colorful altar displays, and hands-on activities perfect for children. You'll find local artists selling handmade goods and authentic cuisine throughout the festival grounds, plus a marketplace where you can shop for unique items and decorations. Your family can participate in several creative activities—make paper marigold flower crowns, create monarch butterflies (which symbolize ancestors returning to visit), or design papel picado decorations to take home. You'll also see stunning murals created by area middle and high school students displayed throughout the venue. A timed-entry ticket is required for all guests, so plan ahead. Note that parking fills up during this popular event; once full, walk-up tickets are only available to those arriving by rideshare. School groups traveling by bus cannot attend due to parking limitations.