The Oldham County History Center will host its vibrant Annual Día de Los Muertos Festival on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at 106 North 2nd Avenue in La Grange. The celebration is free and open to the public.
Día de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a cherished Mexican holiday honoring the lives of those who have passed while embracing the joy of remembrance. The History Center’s event will highlight colorful altars (ofrendas), traditional music and dance, face painting, authentic foods, and artisan vendors. Local partners include Taqueria Danny, La Pana, Neveria y Paleteria 5 De Mayo, and Artesanías Maritza.
“As a first-generation Mexican, preserving Día de los Muertos is very close to my heart,” said Nancy Valencia De Morgan, board member for the Oldham County History Center. “It’s a way to honor our loved ones, keep our heritage alive, and share this beautiful tradition with the wider community.”
Highlights of the evening include:
- 3:00 p.m. – Face painting, live mariachi, vendors, food trucks, and altar displays
- 4:00 p.m. – Community Parade through historic downtown La Grange (open to all participants, with costumes encouraged)
- 5:30 p.m. – Cultural dance performances and live music
- 6:30 p.m. – Catrin & Catrina Costume Contest with prizes in children, teen, and adult categories
The parade invites guests of all ages to walk the streets of La Grange in celebration, with costumes inspired by Day of the Dead traditions. Dogs are welcome, especially if dressed as alebrijes, the colorful “spirit animals” of Mexican folklore.
The Catrin & Catrina Contest caps off the evening, showcasing creative costumes inspired by the iconic skeleton figures first made famous by artist José Guadalupe Posada. Registration is required to participate in the contest, with sign-up available through Eventbrite.For more information about the festival and contest registration, visit the Oldham County History Center’s website.
This article appears in Sep 1-30, 2025.