Día de los Muertos Festival

Mexican heritage and Louisiana traditions will come together at the third annual Día de los Muertos Festival in the Lake Charles Event Center’s Buccaneer Room. Presented by the Culture, Art & Music Association of Louisiana (CAM) and St. Henry’s Catholic Church, the free festival will celebrate “Catrinas y Catrines del Carnaval” with music, dancing, cultural performances, and remembrance.

This year’s theme draws inspiration from La Catrina and her male counterpart, El Catrín, pairing the elegantly dressed skeletal figures associated with Día de los Muertos with the vibrant colors and pageantry of Louisiana’s Mardi Gras.

“This festival is about remembering the people we love, sharing our traditions, and welcoming the community to celebrate with us,” said Edwina Medearis, founder and executive director of CAM. “With Catrinas y Catrines del Carnaval, we’re bringing Mexican heritage and Louisiana culture together. Whether you grew up celebrating Día de los Muertos or are learning about it for the first time, there is a place for you here.”

The festival will feature live music, dancing catrinas and catrines, and cultural dance performances. Attendees are also invited to participate in a free Catrina and Catrín costume contest, showcasing elaborate attire, accessories, and skeletal makeup inspired by the tradition.

The contest will also serve as a connection to Mardi Gras season. CAM plans for the winners to represent the festival in Southwest Louisiana’s Children’s Day Parade on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2027. The appearance would mark the festival’s first participation in the Mardi Gras event, giving participants a new opportunity to share Día de los Muertos with the wider community.

Remembrance will remain at the heart of the festival through an ofrenda, or altar, honoring loved ones who have died. Ofrendas traditionally include photographs, flowers, favorite foods, and meaningful objects that celebrate their lives and keep their memories present. Attendees are invited to bring a photo of a loved one to place on the community ofrenda.