Legend has it that on Dia de los Muertos, the dead join us as a part of our community, awakened from their eternal sleep to share celebrations with loved ones. Members of thecommunity are invited to build an altar inviting a loved one to enjoy the fragrance of marigolds and delicious pan de Muerto (bread of the dead). A community altar will be available at the event to write notes or share mementos in celebration of souls no longer on Earth.

You can be a part of this fun event as well by contirbuting an altar. We invite traditional or contemporary altars that explore death on a social, spiritual, cultural, and personal level. We love for the community to participate but we will have a limited number of spots available. Learn about the guidelines for altar building here.

The newest family holiday tradition, Luminaria, returns for its second year to the Ashton Gardens! This enchanting mile walk will transport you into a magical holiday world as you make your way through the Ashton Gardens. The Grand Allee’s 8,000 programmable luminaries blanket the sweeping hill, where each one acts as a pixel in a moving picture of blooming poinsettias, flying reindeer, and dynamic symbols of the season. And on top of that 40-foot hill, you’ll be met with the colossal 120-foot tree—all lit up and ready to be admired. And that is just the beginning! You'll have to see it for yourself to believe. Tickets are on sale now. Luminaria runs November 20-December 30 (closed Sundays).