Celebrate Día de los Muertos on Ocracoke Island, NC!

Ocracoke’s Mexican community in partnership with Ocracoke Alive invites everyone to a special celebration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a cherished tradition honoring loved ones who have passed, including pets. For more information visit https://www.ocracokealive.org/heritage-festival.html

SCHEDULE

9 AM – Soccer Tournament (7v7), plus games, food & fun (Ocracoke Community Ball Field, 148 Maurice Ballance Rd)

2–4 PM – Add to the ofrenda (altar) (Ocracoke Commons Visitor & Cultural Center, corner of Lighthouse Rd & Hwy 12)

5:30 PM – Día de Muertos Welcome & Catrinas/Catrines Competition, followed by a Community Potluck (Ocracoke Commons Visitor & Cultural Center)

8 PM – Community DanceOcracoke Community Center, 999 Irvin Garrish Hwy

THE OFRENDA ~ A community altar will be decorated with marigolds to guide the spirits, candles to light their way, and photos and meaningful objects. You’re invited to bring a photo of a loved one who has passed, or a favorite food or personal item that represents them.

POTLUCK Please bring a dish to share!

CATRINAS/CATRINES COMPETITION ~ La Catrina, the elegant skeleton created by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada over 100 years ago, reminds us that death comes to everyone, rich or poor. Today she’s a beloved symbol of Mexican culture. Paint your face, dress in your most elegant outfit, and join the contest! Adults: 1st $300, 2nd $150, 3rd $75, Most Popular $200Kids: 1st $50, 2nd $40, 3rd $30This contest is for Catrinas and Catrines only, not general Halloween costumes. The second floor of the Island Inn will be open from 3 PM for contestants to get ready. REGISTER in person from 3:30 to 5:00 PM, or online.Everyone is welcome!