Arts & Entertainment
Illinois State Museum Hosts Free Day of the Dead at Museum Event Nov. 1
Springfield, IL – Families across central Illinois looking for a free weekend activity can experience music, cultural traditions, arts and crafts, and a special exhibition Sunday, November 1, as the I
By Cole Barrett · 2026-10-30T11:22:22.522Z
Springfield, IL – Families across central Illinois looking for a free weekend activity can experience music, cultural traditions, arts and crafts, and a special exhibition Sunday, November 1, as the Illinois State Museum hosts its annual Día de los Muertos Family Day.
According to the Illinois State Museum, the celebration will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the museum, located at 502 S. Spring St. in Springfield . Admission is free.
The event celebrates Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, a cultural tradition observed November 1 2 that honors and remembers loved ones who have died.
Free Activities, Music and Cultural Exhibits
Visitors can participate in family friendly arts and crafts, explore community partner tables, enjoy musical performances and experience food associated with the celebration.
The museum's annual Ofrenda exhibition will also be open for viewing.
Ofrendas are traditional altars created to honor deceased loved ones, often featuring photographs, flowers, candles and meaningful personal items.
The celebration emphasizes remembrance, family connections and the continuation of cultural traditions.
Museum Celebrates Annual Tradition
"Day of the Dead has become an annual tradition at ISM," said museum Director Jenn Edginton.
"It's an opportunity for Illinoisians to come together to learn more about Latine culture and celebrations through experiencing them firsthand."
Corinne Claycomb, the museum's curator of art and history education, said the celebration provides an opportunity to remember individuals who helped shape families and communities.
The program is supported in part by the Illinois State Museum Society.
What Families Should Know Before Visiting
The Illinois State Museum is open Sundays from noon until 4:30 p.m., allowing visitors additional time to explore the museum before or after the scheduled celebration.
The event itself runs from 1 to 4 p.m.
Admission to the museum is free, making the celebration an accessible weekend activity for families throughout the Springfield area.
Additional event information is available at IllinoisStateMuseum.org .