Day Of The Dead Celebration Coming To Wheaton

WHEATON, IL — Downtown Wheaton will celebrate Mexican tradition with a Day of the Dead Celebration on Nov. 2. The event, which draws inspiration from College of DuPage's upcoming Frida Kahlo exhibit, will feature an elaborate altar, a candelit procession through downtown Wheaton, and a bazaar selling Mexican food and works by Mexican-American artisans.

The Day of the Dead celebration begins at 5 p.m. with a colorful candlelit procession that starts at Gary United Methodist Church, 224 N. Main St. Parade participants will be decked out as traditional Mexican Dia de los Muertos characters and in costumes inspired by the late Frida Kahlo.

After the procession, guests can gather at the church to listen to traditional Mexican tunes by Los Monarcas as local group perform choreographed dance routines.

Throughout the event, you can browse a Mexican-inspired bazaar to nosh on sugar skulls, tamales, and other eats. Artisans will also be selling handmade, original art at the bazaar.

The Burning Bush Art Gallery, located at 216 N. Main St., will host a What Would Frida Do? art exhibit that spotlights the work of local painters Roberto Ferreyra and Gerardo Madrigal and touches on contemporary issues, such as immigration, and Frida Kahlo's commitment to social justice.

What: Wheaton Day of the Dead Celebration

When: Nov. 2 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Where: Gary United Methodist Church, 224 N. Main St., Wheaton