Saturday, November 7, 2026
Festival
Esplanade Park
400 SW 2nd Street
3:00 pm-8:00 pm
Stroll
SW 2nd Street and
Riverwalk
Starts at 6:00 pm
Block Party
SW 3rd Avenue/
Revolution Live
4:00 pm-11:00 pm
Join Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale and Damn Good Hospitality (Revolution Live/Backyard Ft. Lauderdale) as we celebrate the Second Annual Downtown Day of the Dead on Saturday, November 7, 2026, with an afternoon and evening honoring one of Mexico’s most cherished traditions. This vibrant, family-friendly event brings the community together to celebrate the lives and memories of loved ones through music, art, culture, and festive experiences along the New River in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a centuries-old Mexican tradition that celebrates the enduring connection between the living and those who have passed. Rather than a day of mourning, it is a joyful celebration of remembrance, where families honor loved ones with colorful decorations, flowers, music, and food while sharing stories and treasured memories.The celebration begins along the scenic Riverwalk with a variety of authentic food and beverage offerings featuring traditional Mexican flavors. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their best Día de los Muertos-inspired attire and participate in the colorful Costume Stroll as it winds downtown and along the Riverwalk, showcasing elaborate Catrina costumes, vibrant face paint, and creative tributes to this beloved cultural celebration.
Sponsor/Vendor Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities range from $50,000 to $1,250. Click here for more information on sponsoring this event.
Vendor opportunities range from $150 to $400. For information email events@GoRiverwalk.com or call (954) 468-1541 ext. 205.
Event Registration
Admission to the second annual Downtown Day of the Dead is free, registering through Eventbrite or Facebook allows us to communicate additional information to you before the event but is not required.
The festivities will include remarks from the Mayor of Fort Lauderdale and representatives from the Mexican Consulate, recognizing the cultural significance of Día de los Muertos and celebrating the rich heritage it brings to our community.
Throughout the event, guests will enjoy the lively sounds of a traditional mariachi band, bringing the spirit of Mexico to Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Face painting will also be available, allowing children and adults alike to transform into beautifully decorated calaveras (sugar skulls) and fully embrace the celebration.
As the festivities along Riverwalk conclude, the celebration doesn’t end there. The Downtown Day of the Dead Celebration continues at Revolution Live until 11:00 p.m., where guests can keep the energy going with additional food, beverages, music and festivities, making it a full day of culture, music, and celebration.
Whether you’re honoring family traditions, experiencing Día de los Muertos for the first time, or simply looking for a unique cultural event, the Second Annual Downtown Day of the Dead Celebration offers an unforgettable day filled with community, remembrance, and celebration.
Free admission to most Riverwalk events including Downtown Day of the Dead is made possible by the support of our sponsors and partners. This year’s event is sponsored by: City of Fort Lauderdale, Damn Good Hospitality, Revolution Live, Backyard Ft. Lauderdale, Kamora, Las Olas Capital Arts, Ellis Connects, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, S. Mark Graphics and Go Riverwalk Magazine.
Pictures from the first annual Downtown Day of the Dead Celebration
