Dia de los Muertos - Day of the Dead Celebrations: Must-See New Jersey Festivals for 2025
Photo Courtesy Day of the Dead
Bright marigolds, sugar skulls, and live music return each fall as Día de los Muertos events light up New Jersey.
Rooted in Mexican tradition, this holiday honors loved ones with color, joy, and community. Families remember, tell stories, and celebrate life together.
Día de los Muertos is not Halloween. The focus is not fear or spooky themes. Families build ofrendas, cook favorite foods, and invite the spirits of those who have passed. The mood is warm, respectful, and full of life.
This guide rounds up standout day of the dead celebrations NJ will host in 2025. Expect altars, music, dance, hands-on art, and great food. Whether you grew up with these traditions or are curious to learn, you will find a welcoming space.
The History and Traditions of Dia de los Muertos in New Jersey
Día de los Muertos dates back to pre-Hispanic cultures in Mexico. Over time, it blended with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. The belief is simple and beautiful. Once a year, loved ones return to visit, and families welcome them with light, scent, music, and food.
In New Jersey, larger public celebrations began in the 1980s as the Mexican community grew in cities like Newark, New Brunswick, and parts of South Jersey. Cultural centers, schools, and libraries now host workshops and altars. The result is a statewide celebration that keeps traditions strong and invites everyone to learn.
Common elements you will see:
- Ofrendas with photos, candles, cempasúchil, papel picado, and favorite foods
- Calaveras de azúcar, often decorated during family-friendly workshops
- Mariachi music, ballet folklórico, and storytelling for all ages
New Jersey’s Celebration Style
New Jersey brings energy and local pride to the holiday. You will find outdoor festivals, community altars, craft stations, and performances. Schools and museums help teach the meaning behind each symbol. Many events welcome contributions to a shared altar, so bring a photo or a small memento if you wish.
Key Takeaways
- Día de los Muertos celebrates life, love, and memory, not fear
- New Jersey hosts both large festivals and warm neighborhood events
- Many gatherings include altars, crafts, mariachi, and folk dance
- Families, friends, and visitors are all welcome to participate
- Plan ahead, some events fill fast and offer limited capacity
2025 Día de los Muertos Events in New Jersey
Washington Boro: Día de los Muertos Celebration
Thursday, October 23, 2025, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Veterans Park, 44 E. Washington Ave
A vibrant, family-friendly event honoring Mexican traditions with live mariachi music, sugar skull face painting, local vendors, and a heartfelt fire pit tribute to loved ones passed. This free outdoor festival blends culture, art, and remembrance in downtown Washington, NJ, making it a must-attend fall celebration for all ages.
Info on Washington Boro event
New Brunswick: Último Domingo, Día de los Muertos at the Zimmerli Art Museum
Sunday, October 26, 2025, 1 to 3 p.m.
Zimmerli Art Museum, 71 Hamilton St,
Celebrate Latino heritage at this vibrant, family-friendly afternoon filled with art-making, bilingual performances, and cultural exhibitions. This free event invites visitors of all ages to honor the Day of the Dead through interactive experiences that blend tradition and creativity, making it one of New Jersey’s top cultural happenings for fall 2025. Pre-register for free parking and explore the heart of Rutgers’ campus while immersing yourself in this unforgettable celebration
Info: Zimmerli Art Museum event
Atlantic City: Día de los Muertos
Saturday, November 1, 2025, starting at 5 p.m
Atlantic City celebrates with color, music, and flavor at the 2025 Día de los Muertos gathering at the Noyes Arts Garage. The event draws locals and visitors to honor loved ones while creating new memories. Mark your calendar fo. Admission is free, and festivities run into the night.
Info: Atlantic City event
Jersey City: Day of the Dead Bar Crawl
Saturday, November 1, 2025
Celebrate life and legacy at the Jersey City Day of the Dead Bar Crawl, a vibrant nightlife tribute blending tradition and revelry. From 5 PM to 2 AM, partygoers 21+ will roam top bars along Newark Avenue, adorned with glowing altars, sugar skulls, and neon face paint. Hosted by PubCrawls.com, this unforgettable event honors Día de los Muertos with music, costumes, and community spirit—making it one of Jersey City's most spirited fall celebrations
Info: Jersey City event
Camden County: Celebration of Life in Cherry Hill
Sunday, November 2, 2025
Challenge Grove Park, Cherry Hill
Celebrate heritage and remembrance, this vibrant cultural festival honors the Day of the Dead with traditional altars (ofrendas), live music, folkloric dance, and family-friendly activities. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, colorful crafts, and storytelling that pays tribute to loved ones passed. Perfect for all ages, this free event blends community spirit with rich tradition, making it a must-attend fall celebration in South Jersey
Info: Camden County event
Montclair: Día de los Muertos at Lackawanna Plaza
October 31 to November 2, 2025
Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair
Celebrate life, memory, and culture. This vibrant three-day event transforms the historic Lackawanna Station into New Jersey’s largest Day of the Dead celebration. Enjoy a bustling Mercadito with over 70 Latino artisans and food vendors, a breathtaking community altar by local artist Lilia Rios, and immersive experiences including candlelight concerts and dance parties. Perfect for families, couples, and culture lovers, this festival honors tradition while creating unforgettable moments
Info: Montclair event
Asbury Park: Día de los Muertos
Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Convention Hall, AsburyPark,
Asbury Park brings dia de los muertos to the boardwalk with an oceanfront celebration. The city’s second annual event is set for, with early face painting starting at 2 p.m. This free, family-friendly gathering welcomes everyone, pets included, to honor loved ones through music and art. The walk begins at Convention Hall and continues along the Asbury Park Boardwalk, ending at the historic Casino. Expect mariachi, singing, and plenty of color.
Info: Asbury Park event
Princeton: Día de los Muertos
November 1, 2025
102 Witherspoon Street
Princeton’s annual festival with the Arts Council of Princeton runs from 1 to 3 p.m. and features music, dance, food, and art for all ages. This outdoor celebration brings together neighbors, artists, and families to honor loved ones and share Mexican culture.
Info: Princeton event
Jersey City: Day of the Dead at Riverview Farmers Market
Sunday, November 2, 2025
Riverview Park, Jersey City
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of El Día de los Muertos, This family-friendly event features a giant puppet parade, live Mariachi music, traditional dance performances, and a community Ofrenda (altar) honoring loved ones. With sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and rich cultural storytelling, this festival blends Mexican heritage with local charm—making it a must-attend for fall festivities in New Jersey.
Info: Riverview Farmers Market event
FAQs
Q: Is Día de los Muertos the same as Halloween?
A: No. The holiday honors loved ones with music, food, and remembrance. It is not about scary costumes or fright.
Q: What is an ofrenda?
A: An ofrenda is an altar with photos, candles, flowers, papel picado, and favorite foods. It welcomes the spirits of loved ones.
Q: Can I bring something for a community altar?
A: Yes. Bring a small photo, paper marigold, or a safe, respectful item. Check event rules for candles or food.
Q: Are these events kid-friendly?
A: Most are great for families, especially festivals at parks, museums, and markets. Review each event page for details.
Q: Do I need to wear face paint?
A: No. Some people choose calavera makeup, others do not. Wear what feels respectful and comfortable.
Q: How much do events cost?
A: Many events are free, some offer paid workshops or ticketed activities. Check links for current pricing and registration.
