(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- Latinos of Montclair invites the community to join New Jersey's most vibrant Día de los Muertos celebration, a three-day festival honoring life, memory, and cultural connection. From October 31 through November 2, 2025, the newly renovated Lackawanna Plaza will be transformed into a dynamic hub of art, music, food, and tradition — a celebration with something for everyone.

This year's festival will feature breathtaking performances, dozens of Latino artisans and food vendors, and New Jersey's largest community altar — a powerful tribute to loved ones who have passed, designed by local Mexican artist and entrepreneur Lilia Rios, owner of La Providencia, the state's largest provider of authentic Mexican goods.

More than a festival, Día de los Muertos 2025 fuels community impact. Proceeds will benefit the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, Ritmo Jardín - Latinos of Montclair's cultural enrichment program for children ages 5–12, and the continued development of Latino community-based programming throughout New Jersey. 

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Festival Hours:  Friday 10/31 from 11:00am – 5:00pm;  Saturday 11/1 from 11:00am – 5:00pm; and Sunday 11/2 from 11:00am – 4:00pm

Across three unforgettable days, visitors will experience:

* The Mercadito: Over 60 artisans and food vendors offering authentic crafts, art, and flavors from across Latin America and New Jersey.

* The Community Altar: A breathtaking installation honoring ancestors through art, florals, and personal tributes.

* Free Daily Programming: Cultural showcases, live music, and family-friendly experiences open to all.

Featured Ticketed Experiences: Jersey's Largest Halloween Party (21+) An epic night of music, dancing, and Halloween magic at Lackawanna Station. Hora Loca, costume contests ($850 in prizes), face painting, and more! Tickets: $25 GA | $50 VIP | $550 Group VIP (up to 6 guests)

Catrina Candlelight Concert & Dance Party (21+).  A night of elegance, music, and dance — from candlelit string quartet to DJ dance floor. Live mariachi, Catrina face painting, and altar art experience. Tickets: $25 GA Dance Party | $50 Concert + Dance | $75 VIP Experience

Colores de Frida – Family Theater Experience. A bilingual theatrical performance celebrating the life and art of Frida Kahlo, blending live painting, dance, and music. Tickets: $5 General Admission Donation | Free for Children Under 5

Celebrating Culture, Supporting Community - More than a festival, Día de los Muertos 2025 fuels community impact. Proceeds will benefit:

* The New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice.

* Ritmo Jardín, Latinos of Montclair's cultural enrichment program for children 5-12.

* The development of Latino community-based programming throughout New Jersey.

Latinos of Montclair is a 501(c)(3) New Jersey–based nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating Latino culture, strengthening community, and amplifying representation through art, education, and civic engagement.

Sponsorship Opportunities: Latinos of Montclair welcomes partners who share our commitment to community, culture, and celebration. Sponsorship opportunities include on-site activation, logo visibility, and cross-platform recognition across digital and print media. To explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact:

 [email protected]

Vendor Opportunities: Visit www.latinosofmontclair.org/dia-de-los-muertos for details on event programming, ticketing, and vendor opportunities.

Follow @ddlm_nj and @latinosofmontclair on Instagram for festival updates, artist spotlights, and behind-the-scenes moments.