Friday, November 6
Concert & Dance | Bay City Civic Center
Saturday, November 7
FREE Festival | Downtown Bay City
Our Mission
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and cultural festivities of the Bay City Día De Los Muertos Festival.
This two-day event is a joyous celebration that brings together the essence of the Day of the Dead with an array of family-friendly activities. From intricate altar displays honoring loved ones to lively music and dance performances, every corner of the festival radiates with vibrant energy and heartfelt reverence. Join us as we embrace the beauty of Mexican heritage through art, food, and community, creating cherished memories that honor the past and celebrate life.
Flor de Muerto Mexican Marigolds
Marigolds are believed to be the pathways that guide the spirits to their ofrendas.
The flower’s vibrant colors and scent attract the departed souls, as they return to feast
on their favorite foods. They are called
“Flor de Muerto” (Spanish for Flower of Dead) and they symbolize the beauty and fragility
of life. Marigold flowers include around 60 annuals and perennials that are native to Mexico and Central America.
Ofrenda
While the most recognizable aspects of Day of the Dead are the representations of skulls and skeletons, the tradition that holds the most meaning is the Ofrenda (Spanish for offering). The Ofrenda is what the whole celebration is about; it’s a collection of offerings dedicated to the person being honored.
A brightly colored Oilcloth covers the table and on top of that sits a collection of photographs and personal items of the departed person. The lower portion of the altar is where the offerings are placed, from traditional Mexican cuisine to other items that represent the honored person’s particular tastes.
Calling All Artist
Those We Carry With Us
The Bay City Public Library and Bay City Día de los Muertos Festival invite artists
of all ages and experience levels to participate in a community art exhibition
and public judged competition.
Create one original Día de los Muertos inspired artwork honoring remembrance,
ancestry, family, tradition, culture, or the people and stories we continue to carry with us.
Accepted Art Forms
Painting
Drawing
Photography
Mixed Media
Textile or Fiber Art
Sculpture
Other Visual Art Forms
Artwork Delivery
October 29 and 30, 2026
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Bay City Public Library
1100 7th St.Bay City, TX
Exhibition
November 2 through 6
Bay City Public Library
November 7
Public Judging at the Día de los Muertos Festival
4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Downtown Bay City
November 9 through 13
Bay City Public LibraryAwards
Best in Show: $100
Most Moving: $50
Most Creative: $50
Library People’s Choice: $50
Artwork must be original, family friendly, ready for display, and connected to
Día de los Muertos or the exhibition theme.
Entry forms and complete rules are available at the Bay City Public Library.
Questions? agarcia@baycitytx.gov
Become A Volunteer!
Join the Fun! Be a Vendor or Sponsor – Email Us Today!
Interested in becoming a vendor or sponsor? Have any questions? Reach out to us at info@dayofthedeadbctx.com, and we’ll be happy to provide all the details!
2026 Sponsors!
