There are few things more sacred than remembering and connecting with your ancestors, or loved ones who have passed. American culture has embraced Mexico’s Day of the Dead – or Día de los Muertos – with typical American commercialism and a party attitude. I don’t really mind because the day is so colorful and beautiful, that it’s big enough to embrace the hype and still stay true to itself. That is why at home I can put pictures up of my grandparents that I never met and talk to them, with a simple altar that honors the spirit of the day. And then with my family or friends we can go and celebrate the day in a community setting. The number of events in DC is still small, but there is a little something for everyone, from foodies to party people, and culture enthusiasts.
Mezcal Tasting:
Union Market hosts a Dia de los Mezcales liquor tasting on Thursday, October 27th from 6 to 8 pm. Mezcal novice? Mezcal obsessed? You can learn more about Mexico's spirit while tasting through a selection of different styles and agave varietals. Artisanal producers will be featured and paired with smoky barbeque from The BBQ Joint. Tickets are $40. Visit here for details.
Celebration and Altar:
The Mexican Cultural Institute hosts a breathtaking altar installation each year. This time the kickoff is Saturday, Oct 29th from Noon to 4 pm. They will honor our beloved Juan Gabriel, as well as others, and papel picado will take center stage. The altar will be on display until November 21. FREE. Visit Institute of Mexico DC for details.
Cooking class:
Del Campo and Chef Victor Albisu will demonstrate how to prepare traditional Mexican dishes for your Day of the Dead celebrations on Saturday, Oct 29th. The afternoon is from Noon to 3pm and begins with 30 minutes for hors d’oeurves and a signature cocktail, followed by one hour of instruction. At the end, lunch will be served to enjoy the items demonstrated. Tickets are $98. Visit here for details.
Two-day festival:
The National Museum of the American Indian has been hosting one of the first and largest celebrations for some years now. They have arts projects for the kids, food tastings, music, dances and art exhibits. This year the event is Saturday, Oct. 29th-Sunday, Oct. 30th. FREE. Visit NMAI for details.
Black Tie Gala:
Things to do DC hosts a Day of the Dead Fiesta on November 4, 2016, 8:30 p.m. to midnight, at the Mexican Cultural Center, Embassy of Mexico, 2829 16th Street, NW Washington DC. The black tie gala includes a Mexican buffet, mariachi, DJ, dancing, open bar with tequila and other drinks, and a tour of the center. Tickets are $124. Visit here for details.
Restaurants:
Local restaurants are offering special drinks, menus and events to celebrate. Oyamel is offering specials now through November 6th, including dishes such as Carne Apache and Calabaza en Tache, and even a late night with Anthony Bourdain on Thursday, Oct. 27th. Visit Oyamel for details. Rosa Mexicano will also have specials including Enchiladas de Mole Poblano and Enchiladas de Mole Blanco. Visit Rosa Mexicano for details and reservations.
Mezcal Tasting:
Union Market hosts a Dia de los Mezcales liquor tasting on Thursday, October 27th from 6 to 8 pm. Mezcal novice? Mezcal obsessed? You can learn more about Mexico's spirit while tasting through a selection of different styles and agave varietals. Artisanal producers will be featured and paired with smoky barbeque from The BBQ Joint. Tickets are $40. Visit here for details.
Celebration and Altar:
The Mexican Cultural Institute hosts a breathtaking altar installation each year. This time the kickoff is Saturday, Oct 29th from Noon to 4 pm. They will honor our beloved Juan Gabriel, as well as others, and papel picado will take center stage. The altar will be on display until November 21. FREE. Visit Institute of Mexico DC for details.
Cooking class:
Del Campo and Chef Victor Albisu will demonstrate how to prepare traditional Mexican dishes for your Day of the Dead celebrations on Saturday, Oct 29th. The afternoon is from Noon to 3pm and begins with 30 minutes for hors d’oeurves and a signature cocktail, followed by one hour of instruction. At the end, lunch will be served to enjoy the items demonstrated. Tickets are $98. Visit here for details.
Two-day festival:
The National Museum of the American Indian has been hosting one of the first and largest celebrations for some years now. They have arts projects for the kids, food tastings, music, dances and art exhibits. This year the event is Saturday, Oct. 29th-Sunday, Oct. 30th. FREE. Visit NMAI for details.
Black Tie Gala:
Things to do DC hosts a Day of the Dead Fiesta on November 4, 2016, 8:30 p.m. to midnight, at the Mexican Cultural Center, Embassy of Mexico, 2829 16th Street, NW Washington DC. The black tie gala includes a Mexican buffet, mariachi, DJ, dancing, open bar with tequila and other drinks, and a tour of the center. Tickets are $124. Visit here for details.
Restaurants:
Local restaurants are offering special drinks, menus and events to celebrate. Oyamel is offering specials now through November 6th, including dishes such as Carne Apache and Calabaza en Tache, and even a late night with Anthony Bourdain on Thursday, Oct. 27th. Visit Oyamel for details. Rosa Mexicano will also have specials including Enchiladas de Mole Poblano and Enchiladas de Mole Blanco. Visit Rosa Mexicano for details and reservations.
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