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Tag: Dia de los muertos

  • Man arrested, charged with bomb hoax at Fort Worth Dia De Los Muertos festival

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    Antonio Mendez, 25, is charged with terrorism, hoax bombs and terroristic threat impeding public service, according to online records.


    Katie Goodale/The Augusta Chronicle

    USA TODAY NETWORK

    A man accused of perpetrating a bomb hoax near Sundance Square during a festival earlier this month has been arrested, according to online jail records.

    Antonio Mendez, 25, is charged with terrorism, hoax bombs and terroristic threat impeding public service, according to online records.

    The Fort Worth Fire Department’s bomb squad responded to the threat just after 5 p.m. on Nov. 1 near the downtown Sinclair Hotel, according to an incident report.

    At the time, a Dia De Los Muertos festival was taking place in the area.

    Police recovered components of the hoax device, which included a copy of the Quran, one labeled and one unlabeled pill bottle, red and black copper wire, and electrical tape, according to an evidence report.

    Also recovered were two notebooks, superglue, UPS packages and other miscellaneous items, according to the report.

    Martinez’s bond has been set at $1.1 million, according to online records.

    Related Stories from Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Lillie Davidson

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Lillie Davidson is a breaking news reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She graduated from TCU in 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, is fluent in Spanish, and can complete a crossword in five minutes.

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  • Things to do in Denver this weekend, Nov. 7-9

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    By Cassidy Ritter, Special to Denverite

    From Día de los Muertos celebrations and First Friday art walks to a free night at several museums, here are some ways to explore Denver this weekend.

    Other happenings include craft and artisan fairs, the start of Denver Arts Week and comedy shows (Tom Segura will be in Colorado Springs). It’s also the last weekend for a few haunted houses, the Denver Film Festival and the South Pearl Farmers Market.

    Whatever you do, make it a great weekend!

    Notes: Events with an * are taking place virtually or outdoors.

    Worth the Trip

    Friday: November First Friday Dia de los Muertos Celebration. Silverthorne Pavilion, 400 Blue River Parkway, Silverthorne. 5:30–8:30 p.m. No cover.

    Sunday: *Veterans Day 5k. Goat Patch Brewing, 2727 N. Cascade Ave., #123, Colorado Springs. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $41.83 (run/walk), $62.83 (run/walk and t-shirt).

    Sunday: Tom Segura. Broadmoor World Arena, 3185 Venetucci Blvd., Colorado Springs. 7 p.m. Prices vary.

    All weekend: Santa’s Rocky Mountain Adventure and Santa’s Lighted Forest. Georgetown Loop Railroad, 646 Loop Drive, Georgetown. Times vary. Free (infants 11 months and under), $32 (ages 1-10), $38 (ages 11 and older).

    Friday, Nov. 7

    Just for fun

    The Salvation Army Denver Metro Women’s Auxiliary Holiday Boutique. The Hellenic Center, 4610 E. Alameda Ave. 9 a.m-4 p.m. Free (admission, children ages 12 and under), $4 (admission, visitors ages 13 and older).

    *Tagawa Gardens Arts & Crafts Festival. Tagawa Gardens, 7711 S. Parker Road, Centennial. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Free (admission, children age 12 and under and veterans), $6 (admission all weekend, visitors ages 13 and older).

    *Clock Tower Self-Guided Tours. Denver Clocktower, 1601 Arapahoe St. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free (children ages 5 and under), $8 (Historic Denver and Molly Brown House Museum members), $10 (general public).

    Vibe Artisan Market – Denver Early Access Event. The Arch, 3001 Walnut St. 3-7 p.m. $10-$15. 

    First Friday Aurora Arts. Cerebral Brewing – Aurora Arts, 9990 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora. 5-8 p.m. No cover.

    *Muertos en Westwood Street Festival. Westwood neighborhood, 3900-4100 Morrison Road. 6-9 p.m. Free.

    Speed Friending (Ages 25-49). The Center on Colfax, 1301 E. Colfax Ave. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $5. Advanced registration required.

    13th Floor Haunted House – Last Weekend. 3400 E. 52nd Ave. 7-9:45 p.m. Starting at $29.99.

    The Frightmare Compound Haunted House. 10798 Yukon St., Westminster. 7-10:30 p.m. Starting at $41.99.

    Kids and family

    The Secret World of Elephants. Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (guests ages 2 and under and members), $20.95 (guests ages 3-18), $22.95 (guests ages 65 and older), $25.95 (adults).

    Little University: Drums. Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library, 1498 Irving St. 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Ideal for ages 5 and under, when accompanied by an adult.

    Dia de Los Muertos Youth Art Show Opening. CHAC Gallery at 40W, 7060 W. 16th Ave., Lakewood. 5-9 p.m. No cover.

    Comedy and theater

    Denver Film Festival – Last Weekend. Locations vary. 10 a.m.-9:45 p.m. $90-$1,000.  

    Kathleen Madigan. Paramount Theatre, 1621 Glenarm Place. 7 p.m. Prices vary.

    The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Parker Arts Schoolhouse, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker. 7:30 p.m. $34. Recommended for ages 13 and older.

    Jeff Dye. Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Place, Greenwood Village. 9:30 p.m. $25-$35.

    Art, culture, and media

    Denver Arts Week. Throughout Denver. Times vary by event. Prices vary. 

    Xochimilco: Works by Eduardo Robledo Romero. Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free (children ages 2 and under and members), $11.75 (children ages 3-15 and students), $12.25 (seniors ages 65 and older, military members), $16 (adults).

    KissFist Mural Fest: Behind the Scenes at Anythink. Anythink Brighton, 327 E. Bridge St., Brighton. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

    Colorado Potter’s Guild Fall 2025 Pottery Show + Sale. First Plymouth Congregational Church, 3501 S. Colorado Blvd., Englewood. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. No cover.

    Big Dreams in Denver’s Little Saigon. History Colorado, 1200 Broadway. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (children ages 18 and under), $15 (adults).

    Tell Clyfford I Said ‘Hi’ : An Exhibition Curated by Children of the Colville Confederated Tribes. Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (visitors ages 17 and under), $10 (student, teacher or military member), $13-$15 (seniors), $15-18 (adults).

    Dia De Los Muertos Colfax Art Crawl. Starting at 40 West Arts, 6501 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood. 5-9 p.m. Free.

    First Friday Art Walks. Art District on Santa Fe, from 13th to Alameda avenues and Kalamath to Inca streets. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Free.

    First Friday. Throughout the RiNo Art District, 6-9 p.m. Free.

    Eat and drink

    Culinary Date Night: Southwest. Cook Street, 43 W. 9th Ave. 6-9:30 p.m. $132 (per person). Advanced registration required. 

    Genki Bar Pop Up. Death & Co. Denver, 1280 25th St. 5-11 p.m. No cover.

    Music and nightlife

    Tango with a Twist: Balloon Animal Making & Tango Lesson. Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, 1485 Delgany St. 6-9 p.m. $27.53.

    *Deadmau5. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison. 6 p.m. Prices vary.

    Want more live music? Check out the Indie 102.3 concert calendar.

    Sports and fitness

    *Golden State Warriors at Denver Nuggets. Ball Arena, 1000 Chopper Circle. Watch on Prime Video or listen at 92.5 FM. 8 p.m. Prices vary.

    Saturday, Nov. 8

    Just for fun

    The Salvation Army Denver Metro Women’s Auxiliary Holiday Boutique. The Hellenic Center, 4610 E. Alameda Ave. 9 a.m-4 p.m. Free (admission, children ages 12 and under), $4 (admission, visitors ages 13 and older).

    Old School Cool Vintage Market. Downtown Englewood, 3501 S. Broadway, Englewood. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. No cover.

    *Tagawa Gardens Arts & Crafts Festival. Tagawa Gardens, 7711 S. Parker Road, Centennial. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Free (admission, children age 12 and under and veterans), $6 (admission all weekend, visitors ages 13 and older).

    Littleton Artisan Fair. Arapahoe Community College, 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. No cover.

    A Holistic Holiday & Magical Makers Faire. Arapahoe County Fairgrounds, 25690 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (admission, children ages 12 and under), $7 (admission, adults all weekend)

    Rocky Mountain Coral Extravaganza. Aurora Quest K-8, 17315 E. Second Ave., Aurora. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. No cover.

    *Urban Holiday Market. Union Station, 1701 Wynkoop St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. No cover.

    Vibe Artisan Market – Denver. The Arch, 3001 Walnut St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. No cover. 

    *Muertos en Westwood Street Festival. Westwood neighborhood, 3900-4100 Morrison Road. Noon-8 p.m. Free.

    Autumn Harvest Craft & Art Walk. Denver Milk Market, 1800 Wazee St., Suite 100. 4-7 p.m. Free.

    Denver Fashion Week – Sustainable Show. The Brighton, 3403 Brighton Blvd. Starting at 7 p.m. Starting at $49.87.

    13th Floor Haunted House – Last Weekend. 3400 E. 52nd Ave. 7-9:45 p.m. Starting at $29.99.

    Last Chance – The Frightmare Compound Haunted House. 10798 Yukon St., Westminster. 7-10:30 p.m. Starting at $41.99.

    Kids and family

    The Secret World of Elephants. Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (guests ages 2 and under and members), $20.95 (guests ages 3-18), $22.95 (guests ages 65 and older), $25.95 (adults).

    Creepy Crawly Storytime. Woodbury Branch Library, 3265 Federal Blvd. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. Ideal for ages 12 and under, when accompanied by an adult.

    Families Create: Paint and Sip. Valdez-Perry Branch Library, 4690 Vine St. 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Ideal for ages 5 and up.

    Comedy and theater

    Denver Film Festival – Last Weekend. Locations vary. 10 a.m.-9:15 p.m. $90-$1,000.  

    The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Parker Arts Schoolhouse, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker. 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $34. Recommended for ages 13 and older.

    Kathleen Madigan. Paramount Theatre, 1621 Glenarm Place. 7 p.m. Prices vary.

    Jeff Dye. Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Place, Greenwood Village. 8:30 p.m. $25-$35.

    Art, culture, and media

    Denver Arts Week. Throughout Denver. Times vary by event. Prices vary. 

    Colorado Potter’s Guild Fall 2025 Pottery Show + Sale. First Plymouth Congregational Church, 3501 S. Colorado Blvd., Englewood. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. No cover.

    KissFist Mural Fest: Behind the Scenes at Anythink. Anythink Brighton, 327 E. Bridge St., Brighton. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

    Big Dreams in Denver’s Little Saigon. History Colorado, 1200 Broadway. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (children ages 18 and under), $15 (adults).

    Autum Artfest 2025. Globeville Riverfront Art Center, 888 E. 50th Ave. 2-6 p.m. No cover.

    Night at the Museum. Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, 1485 Delgany St. 5-10 p.m. Free.

    Free Night at the Museums. Locations vary. 5-10 p.m. Free.

    Night at the Museums. Denver Botanic Gardens – York Street, 1085 York St. 5-10 p.m. Free.

    Celebration of the Arts Benefit Gala. North Metro Arts Alliance at Cottonwood Lodge, 9650 Sheridan Blvd., Westminster. 5:30-9:30 p.m. $50 (NMAA members), $60 (non-members).

    Lumonics Immersed. Lumonics Light & Sound Gallery, 800 E. 73rd Ave., Unit 11. 8-10 p.m. $15-$25. Advanced registration required.

    Eat and drink

    Cerebral & Friends: Guest Taps. Cerebral Brewing – West Highland, 3257 Lowell Blvd. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. No cover.

    Genki Bar Pop Up. Death & Co. Denver, 1280 25th St. 5-11 p.m. No cover.

    Tapas. Cook Street, 43 W. 9th Ave. 6-9:30 p.m. $132 (per person). Advanced registration required.

    Music and nightlife

    *Deadmau5. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison. 6 p.m. Prices vary.

    Conjunto Primavera. National Western Complex, 4655 N. Humboldt St. 8-11:59 p.m. Starting at $50.

    Want more live music? Check out the Indie 102.3 concert calendar.

    Sports and fitness

    Rainforest Yoga. Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster. 7:45 a.m. $15 (member), $18 (non-member). Advance registration required.

    *Indiana Pacers at Denver Nuggets. Ball Arena, 1000 Chopper Circle. Watch on Altitude or listen at 92.5 FM. 7 p.m. Prices vary.

    *Colorado Avalanche at Edmonton Oilers. Watch on ATL2 or KTVD. 8 p.m.

    Sunday, Nov. 9

    Just for fun 

    *Tagawa Gardens Arts & Crafts Festival. Tagawa Gardens, 7711 S. Parker Road, Centennial. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Free (admission, children age 12 and under and veterans), $6 (admission all weekend, visitors ages 13 and older).

    *Clock Tower Self-Guided Tours. Denver Clocktower, 1601 Arapahoe St. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free (children ages 5 and under), $8 (Historic Denver and Molly Brown House Museum members), $10 (general public).

    A Holistic Holiday & Magical Makers Faire. Arapahoe County Fairgrounds, 25690 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free (admission, children ages 12 and under), $7 (admission, adults all weekend)

    Cat Fest Colorado. National Western Complex, 4655 N. Humboldt St. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (ages 5 and under), $20 (ages 6 and older).

    Holiday Vendor Pop Up. Lilah Blue Boutique, 721 Main St., Windsor. Start at 11 a.m. No cover.

    *Muertos en Westwood Street Festival. Westwood neighborhood, 3900-4100 Morrison Road. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

    *Urban Holiday Market. Union Station, 1701 Wynkoop St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. No cover.

    Vibe Artisan Market – Denver. The Arch, 3001 Walnut St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. No cover. 

    13th Floor Haunted House – Last Weekend. 3400 E. 52nd Ave. 6-8:45 p.m. Starting at $19.99.

    Kids and family

    The Secret World of Elephants. Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (guests ages 2 and under and members), $20.95 (guests ages 3-18), $22.95 (guests ages 65 and older), $25.95 (adults).

    Indigenous Storytime. Sam Gary Branch Library, 2961 Roslyn St. 10:30-11 a.m. Free. Ideal for ages 5 and under, when accompanied by an adult.

    Denver Fashion Week – Youth + Mommy & Me. The Brighton, 3403 Brighton Blvd. Starting at 3 p.m. Starting at $45.06. All ages.

    Comedy and theater

    Denver Film Festival – Last Weekend. Locations vary. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $90-$1,000.  

    The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Parker Arts Schoolhouse, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker. 2:00 p.m. $34. Recommended for ages 13 and older.

    Mark Gagnon. Comedy Works Downtown, 1226 15th St. 5 p.m. $22-$27.

    Georgia Comstock and Friends. Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Place, Greenwood Village. 7 p.m. $14.

    Art, culture, and media

    Denver Arts Week. Throughout Denver. Times vary by event. Prices vary. 

    Xochimilco: Works by Eduardo Robledo Romero. Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free (children ages 2 and under and members), $11.75 (children ages 3-15 and students), $12.25 (seniors ages 65 and older, military members), $16 (adults).

    Big Dreams in Denver’s Little Saigon. History Colorado, 1200 Broadway. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (children ages 18 and under), $15 (adults).

    Confluence of Nature: Nancy Hemenway Barton. Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (members and children age 18 and younger), $22-$27 (students, teachers, active military members, veterans, seniors ages 65 and older), $25-$30 (adults). 

    The Honest Eye: Camille Pissarro’s Impressionism. Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free (members and children age 18 and younger), $22-$27 (students, teachers, active military members, veterans, seniors ages 65 and older), $25-$30 (adults).

    Eat and drink

    *South Pearl Farmers Market – Last Weekend. 1400 and 1500 blocks of South Pearl Street between Iowa and Arkansas. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. No cover.

    Genki Bar Pop Up. Death & Co. Denver, 1280 25th St. 5-10 p.m. No cover.

    Music and nightlife

    37th Annual Champagne Cascade. The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, 321 17th St. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Starting at $31. 

    *Key Glock. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison. 6 p.m. Prices vary.

    Want more live music? Check out the Indie 102.3 concert calendar.

    Sports and fitness

    Rainforest Yoga. Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster. 7:45 a.m. $15 (member), $18 (non-member). Advance registration required.

    Girls on the Run Metro Denver Fall 5K. Starting at Empower Field at Mile High, 1701 Bryant St. Starting at 8 a.m. (race begins at 10 a.m.). $38.35.

    *Colorado Avalanche at Vancouver Canucks. Watch on ATL. 8 p.m.

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  • Día De Los Muertos parade brings rich culture, bright colors to north Fort Worth

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    Chilly weather and rainy skies were no match for the Folklorico dancers waving from floats and tiny cheerleaders marching on Main Street on Saturday morning for the 22nd annual Día De Los Muertos in Fort Worth parade.

    Parade participants ride in their float on Main Street for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Parade participants ride in their float on Main Street for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Christopher Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    The parade was thrown by Artes de la Rosa, a Fort Worth-based organization focused on Latino artists and culture, in partnership with several other local organizations to celebrate the Mexican holiday celebrated every year on November 1 and 2nd to remember family members and loved ones who have passed on.

    William Girón, the artistic director of Artes de la Rosa, said that the parade is an opportunity for families to remember those they’ve lost and to celebrate their heritage. Over 30 floats participated on Saturday.

    “Our mission is to preserve, promote, interpret the art lives, history and culture of the Latino community for everyone to enjoy,” Girón said. “There’s a lot of different celebrations happening this weekend, so we’re excited.”

    Parade participants ride in their float on Main Street for the Dia De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Parade participants ride in their float on Main Street for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Christopher Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    Onlookers and community members lined the sidewalks along the route to watch the action and participate in a holiday with rich history and meaning in Mexican culture.

    For Crowley resident Theodore Ruiz and his family, the parade — and the Día De Los Muertos — hold a special meaning.

    “It’s actually a tradition that we do every year,” Ruiz said. “We set up an ofrenda, and we come out here every year for the parade to celebrate.”

    Cheerleaders from East Fort Worth Montessori Academy march down Main Street for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Cheerleaders from East Fort Worth Montessori Academy march down Main Street for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Chris Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    In the line of floats was a group of about a dozen school children in snazzy green and white cheerleader outfits — the newly formed cheer squad at East Fort Worth Montessori Academy. They were walking alongside the school’s robotics club.

    “It feels really good to be a part of this event and teach the girls what it’s about,” said Candace Cook, a Fort Worth native and a parent at the school. “Their smiles lighten up the whole atmosphere.”

    Parade participants from Ballet Folklorico Azteca de Fort Worth walk down Ellis Avenue for the Dia De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Parade participants from Ballet Folklorico Azteca de Fort Worth walk down Ellis Avenue for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Christopher Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    For Stephanie Vordokas, an instructor with Ballet Folklorico Azteca de Fort Worth, the parade is a chance to share her culture. Ballet Folklorico Azteca de Fort Worth is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

    “I think it’s really important as a community to come together to celebrate our traditions and our culture,” Vordokas said. “And to just pass that on and show the community that we are alive. [The culture] is vibrant. Come out and join us.”

    Folklorico dancing has become a multi-generational tradition in Vordokas’ family. She has been dancing for decades, and her 15-year-old daughter has been dancing since she was 4.

    “I’m really happy that she finds a home with the group that I found a home with,” Vordokas said.

    For some walking along the route, the holiday has carried extra meaning in the past few years, as President Trump has focused his administration’s efforts on immigration and deportation and made disparaging comments about Mexico.

    “Mexican culture is very beautiful — it’s got so much color and flavor,” said Roanoke resident Jessica Faz, a parent whose 13-year-old daughter is a dancer in Ballet Folklorico of Fort Worth. Foz’ family immigrated to the United States from Mexico, but she was born in the United States. “I want people to see that.”

    For those looking for more Día De Los Muertos celebrations this weekend in the metroplex, the Star-Telegram has a roundup of events.

    Parade participants walks down Main Street for the Dia De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Parade participants walk down Main Street for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Christopher Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    Parade participants ride down Ellis Avenue for the Dia De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Parade participants ride down Ellis Avenue for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Christopher Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    Parade participants walk down Ellis Avenue for the Dia De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Parade participants walk down Ellis Avenue for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Christopher Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    Parade participants ride down Ellis Avenue for the Dia De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Parade participants ride down Ellis Avenue for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Christopher Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    Parade participants walk down Main Street for the Dia De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.
    Parade participants walk down Main Street for the Día De Los Muertos Parade in Northside Fort Worth on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. Christopher Torres ctorres@star-telegram.com

    This story was originally published November 1, 2025 at 2:30 PM.

    Emily Holshouser

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Emily Holshouser is a local news reporter at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

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    Emily Holshouser

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  • Day of the Dead sawdust carpets, altars celebrate life through tradition

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    CLEVELAND — A decades-long tradition from Guanajuato, Mexico is now returning to the Pivot Center for Art, Dance & Expression to celebrate Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

    What You Need To Know

    • Day of the Dead is rooted in Mexican and Latin American history but is now celebrated by millions of people across the globe during the first two days of November

    • Ways of celebrating the holiday can vary, but all traditions center around the believed unification of the living world and spirits in the afterlife

    • A local artist is partnering with the Mexican Committee of Cleveland and other groups to share the art and history of making Day of the Dead sawdust carpets and altars

    El Tapete de la Muerte/ Carpet of Death

    Artistic Director Hector Castellanos Lara is leading workshops to assemble a grand “tapete de muerte,” or, “carpet of death,” made of sawdust, sand and other natural materials. He said sawdust rugs are a Holy Week tradition in several Latin American countries but was transformed into a Day of the Dead tradition by a group University of Guanajuato students in 2008. 

    The tradition grew in popularity and was adopted by the Pivot Art Center in 2022, and has returned each year since, Castellanos Lara said.

    “We start making classes [on] how to apply the sawdust and the colored sand to tiles that are made of foam board,” he said. “And, parents and grandparents and children, they come and they’re making their own.”

    He said each student makes decorates an individual tiles that are placed around a central image, altogether forming a larger art. He said, the carpets will remain on display until the center’s Day of the Dead celebration on Sunday.

    “La Catrina” is a skeletal figure that’s become a national symbol for Day of the Dead in Mexico. (Spectrum News 1/Tanya Velazquez)

    “The ceremony will end with the Catrina [who] will walk over the tapete de la muerte and everything will be moved around. All this, all those colors… those will be all over,” Catellanos Lara said.

    Ofrendas/ Altars 

    The Pivot Arts Center is also inviting members of the community to participate in a more common Day of the Dead tradition: building altars. These displays also known as “ofrendas,” hold offerings meant to invite the spirits of loved ones.

    Frances Araujo is one of several families invited by the Comité Mexicano de Cleveland to construct one of these altars. 

    Day of the Dead ofrendas often showcase a mix of indigenous and Spanish histories, commonly featuring items like a “copal” – used in ceremonies as incense – and religious crosses.

    Day of the Dead ofrendas often showcase a mix of indigenous and Spanish histories, commonly featuring items like a “copal” – used in ceremonies as incense – and religious crosses. (Spectrum News 1/Tanya Velazquez)

    “Despite the pain that the death of a loved one can cause us, we also take it with joy and remember it with with affection,” she said.

    Day of the Dead altars typically showcase which often include, photos of deceased loved ones, bread of the dead, flowers and other symbolic objects, Araujo said.

    “We put candles, which is for them to walk toward the light,” she said. “We put the water to them, so they aren’t thirsty on the way. … Also the food that they liked or their favorite.”

    The holiday’s history

    Ancestral elements also hold an important space on the altar, said Lucia Gutierrez, who is an indigenous, Purépecha medicine woman and biochemical engineer.

    Gutierrez grew up in Michoacán, Mexico, where she said the holiday spans longer than two days and is known by a different name.

    “So we actually don’t call it Noche de Muertos.’ We call it ‘Noche de las Ánimas,’ which can be translated to ‘Return of the Souls.’ But it’s actually like weeks for that celebration,” Gutierrez said.

    A growing number of people celebrate Day of the Dead each year, she said, but it’s important to recognize its indigenous roots.

    Lucia Gutierrez shared her homeland’s traditions with other community members at the Young Latino Network’s

    Lucia Gutierrez shared her homeland’s traditions with other community members at the Young Latino Network’s

    “For a lot of indigenous people … in order to preserve traditions, we have to mix our tradition with religion, or different things that now we are used to,” she said. “Before that, there were elements that were part of our daily life, like the use of ‘copal’, or the use of salt, or the use of fire.”

    While Día de los Muertos traditions can vary, Castellanos Lara said, all represent the celebration of life.

    “It’s important because that’s the only way we can transmit those to our children,” Castellanos Lara said. “And the new generation that will continue these beautiful events and traditions annually.”

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    Tanya Velazquez

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  • Weekend Food Bets: Spooky Sips and Supper Parties – Houston Press

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    Halloween Frights and Bites

    Friday

    This Halloween, Houston’s food scene is serving up the frights and bites, from haunted pop-up bars and cocktail-filled costume parties to family-friendly treats and trick-or-treat style dining. Check out our 2025 Halloween Food and Drink Guide to dig into the bites, drinks and spooky happenings this haunted holiday.

    Friday–Saturday

    4721 North Main

    Jane and the Lion Bakehouse debuts dinner service with cozy, seasonal three-course suppers served Thursday through Saturday at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Expect locally sourced ingredients, rotating chalkboard menus and chef Jane Wild’s signature no-shortcuts style. Soft launch seatings kick off on Halloween night, with regular service in November. Reservations required.

    Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    9724 Hillcroft


    Houston’s iconic New York Deli & Coffee Shop is throwing a party to celebrate five decades of bagels, schmears and community love. The free family-friendly bash will feature 50=cent wood-fired pizza slices, deli favorites, cookie decorating, tie-dye and face painting stations, merch giveaways and a live DJ spinning tunes all afternoon. 

    Fall Katy Sip & Stroll at The ARK by Norris Event Center

    Saturday, 6 to 9 p.m.

    21402 Merchants

    As the sun sets, hit the 30th annual Katy Sip N Stroll for its Let’s Glow event, featuring a glow-up theme with vibrant colors, sparkling sips and an after-hours ambiance. Fun includes a  body paint bar, live music and dancing, electric parade, and tasty bites from Katy’s hottest spots. Tickets are all-inclusive and are $5 more at the door (if available). All food and beverage tastings are included in ticket price. Must be 21+ to attend.

    Día de los Muertos Celebration at URBE

    Saturday, 7 to 11 p.m.

    1101 Uptown Park

    Folks can honor Día de los Muertos with a lively night of food, drinks and tradition at URBE. Enjoy vibrant street food from chefs Hugo and Ruben Ortega, interactive stations, four specialty cocktails featuring Maestro Dobel, 1800 and 400 Conejos spirits, plus calavera folkloric dancers, mariachis, a live DJ, face painting, festive décor, a photo booth and prizes for the best costumes. Tickets are $85 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Día de los Muertos recipe: This pan de muerto is perfect for dunking in chocolate

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    A proper celebration of Dia de los Muertos requires pan de muerto.

    Some families might bake a few loaves and leave them at the gravestones of their deceased loved ones. Others might simply leave the bread on the homemade altars, “ofrendas,” to provide nourishment for their late relatives.

    No matter the delivery method, the recommendation is to always make extra for yourselves, and save the leftovers to drink with your coffee the next morning. Better yet, use it to make French toast.

    RELATED: Expert chefs share their favorite Día de los Muertos recipes and traditions

    Mariana Nuño Ruiz, who co-authored “Dining with the Dead: A Feast for the Souls on Day of the Dead — A Mexican Cookbook” with her husband, Ian McEnroe, said there are a million ways to make pan de muerto, but your loaf should represent the traditions of your family or hometown.

    “I’m from Guadalajara, Jalisco, so my bread represents small towns where the flavor has a lot of Mexican canela (cinnamon), Flor de Azar (Mexican liqueur) and orange zest,” Ruiz said. “And it’s a very rich bread. It’s not this fluffy bread that you can find at bakeries on this side of the border. This bread, you can dunk it in chocolate, and it will absorb all the delicious chocolate.”

    Some folks start baking the bread a week or two in advance and keep on baking it through November.

    Ruiz’s recipe (see below) takes two days to make, but she said it won’t be too difficult for anybody who has baked bread before.

    For beginners, she recommends reading the recipe over two or three times and to plan ahead.

    “It takes a bit of practice,” she said. “But I can assure you that you will have a delicious pan de muerto.”

    For more on how to celebrate Dia de los Muertos, check out our feature story and other recipes for how to make decorative Mexican sugar skulls and how to make edible mini lemon sugar skull cakes.

    Mariana Nuño Ruiz and Ian McEnroe wrote “Dining With the Dead: A Feast for the Souls on Day of the Dead — A Mexican Cookbook” together. (Photo by Ian McEnroe) 

    Pan de Muerto: Bread of the Dead

    Makes 6 medium (6- to 7-inch) breads or 12 to 14 small (4-inch) breads (the recipe also works well for half a batch)

    INGREDIENTS

    Sponge:
    1 cup (4 ounces/125 ml) whole milk
    2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar
    2 tablespoons (16 g) unbleached all-purpose flour
    2½ teaspoons (¼ ounce/14 g) active dry yeast

    Dough:
    7 cups (850 g) unbleached all-purpose flour
    1 cup (150 g) whole wheat or rye flour
    1 cup (200 g) white sugar
    2 teaspoons (10 g) fine sea salt
    4 teaspoons (8 g) ground canela
    1 cup (8 oz/227 g) European-style butter, room temperature
    4 large whole eggs
    2 large egg yolks
    1 tablespoon (15 ml) orange blossom water**
    1 teaspoon (2 g) orange zest**
    **Orange blossom water is easy to find in Middle Eastern specialty markets and is absolutely delicious in this bread!
    Valencia oranges have the best zest flavor for baking

    Sugar topping:
    1 stick (4 oz/115 g) butter, melted
    1 cup granulated white sugar
    1 to 2 pinches ground canela

    DIRECTIONS

    First day:

    1. Make the sponge. Warm the milk to lukewarm. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar and flour, and mix to avoid any lumps. Sprinkle the yeast over milk mixture and gently mix in. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let this mixture bloom in a warm place for 15 to 20 minutes, until the mixture looks foamy and creamy and the top resembles a sponge.

    2. Make the dough. In the bowl of your stand mixer, add all of the dry dough ingredients — flours, sugar, salt and canela. Set on slow speed and mix well. Add butter to the flour bowl in small chunks and mix in for a few seconds. Add eggs, egg yolks, orange blossom water, orange zest and the foamy yeast sponge. Using the hook attachment of your stand mixer, mix dough on medium-low speed for 2 to 3 minutes until it forms a ball in the center. Then mix for 5 minutes on medium and at last crank your mixer to medium-high speed and mix dough for 2 to 3 more minutes. If making dough by hand, knead for 25 to 30 minutes, until dough is smooth, soft, elastic and does not stick to the surface. Dough should have a shine and should not be sticky to the touch.

    3. Gently remove the dough from hook and place it into a lightly oiled, large bowl. Knead dough briefly to shape into a ball. Place dough in a large lightly buttered bowl, cover with plastic wrap and then with a clean kitchen towel, and place it in the refrigerator overnight. I’ve tried different methods, but 8 to 10 hours overnight is the right amount of time for the dough to develop. This method allows you to develop flavor in the dough without having to keep an eye on it all day.

    "Dining with the Dead: A Feast for the Souls on Day of the Dead - A Mexican Cookbook," by Mariana Nuño Ruiz and Ian McEnroe, shows the process of making pan de muerto. (Photo by Ian McEnroe).
    “Dining With the Dead: A Feast for the Souls on Day of the Dead,” by Mariana Nuño Ruiz and Ian McEnroe, shows the process of making pan de muerto. (Photo by Ian McEnroe) 

    Second day:

    1. Pull the dough out of refrigerator, gently punch and reshape the dough, kneading gently, and briefly transfer to a baking tray and cover with plastic wrap and then a kitchen towel. Place in a warm place for about 2 to 2½ hours to come to room temperature. At that point, your dough should be soft, malleable and ready to be shaped.

    2. Over a lightly floured surface, divide the dough in half. Shape one half into a ball, cover with plastic wrap and set aside. Then divide the other half into 4 equal parts. Reserve one part for the skulls and bone shapes, cover with plastic wrap and set aside. Shape the other 3 pieces each into a ball by taking the piece of dough and wrapping the edges underneath itself to form a round ball. Place rounded dough on the table, and using your hand, create a concave shape and gently cup your hand over the dough ball. Gently, create a circular motion with the dough under your hand by rubbing against the table until you have formed a smooth, round, tighter ball. Refer to the photos for help.

    3. Place each of the 3 large formed balls onto either a buttered pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your fingers, press the center of each ball to flatten to about ½-inch thick, and flatten the edges of the round ball against the baking sheet.

    4. Using the fourth small reserved piece of dough, divide and make 3 balls the size of a key lime and 3 logs 1-inch across, then equally divide the rest of the dough into 3 balls about the size of a small plum, about 2½ inches around.

    5. To make the skull: Take one small key-lime-sized dough ball and make one round ball and set aside. To make the crossbones for each top: Take one small plum-sized dough ball and divide dough into two equal portions. Roll one portion into a small cylinder. Roll the other portion into another cylinder. Using your fingers, roll the two logs against the table. As you roll, spread your fingers to create four bumps. These bumpy strips will represent the bones. Place the two bone strips one across the other over the top of each large dough ball, forming a cross shape.

    The process of making pan de muertos, excerpted from "Dining with the Dead: A Feast for the Souls on Day of the Dead - A Mexican Cookbook," by Mariana Nuño Ruiz and Ian McEnroe (Photo by Ian McEnroe).
    “Dining With the Dead” details the steps to making pan de muerto. (Photo by Ian McEnroe). 

    6. Now we are ready to place the round center ball that represents the skull on the main bread portion top. Use your fingers to make a deep indentation in the center of the shaped dough about halfway to the bottom of the dough, being careful not to tear the dough, and place the small skull ball in the center. Do not worry about pushing the center down a bit; this will prevent the ball from falling off when baking. There is no need to add water or eggwash to glue the dough decorations over the dough; just make sure you flatten them against the body of the main dough ball so they stick together.

    7. Now, do the same to decorate the other two dough rounds this way. Then cover the three with plastic wrap and then a kitchen towel. Place the tray in a warm place in your kitchen and proof them for 25 to 30 minutes, and then double in size. Time of proofing will depend on how warm your kitchen is. Check on them after 15 minutes to avoid overproofing, and decide if they need more or less time.

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    Jason Mastrodonato

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  • Where to Find Houston’s Spookiest Halloween Desserts – Houston Press

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    Overview:

    From pan de muerto to monster cannolis, here’s where to find the season’s best sweets.

    This Halloween, skip the tricks and go straight for the treats. Local favorites like Common Bond, Popfancy and URBE are conjuring up everything from festive cakes and cookies to pan de muerto and candy-inspired desserts. Here’s where to find Houston’s sweetest (and spookiest) indulgences this season.

    Buttermilk Baby, 600 North Shepherd

    Scoop up limited-time Halloween treats and cozy new soft serve flavors, including the Graveyard Delight and Monster Mash Dasher, plus a Pumpkin Spice Frappe through November 30.

    Common Bond Bistro & Bakery, multiple locations

    Celebrate Halloween with Common Bond’s limited-time Spooky Candy Bar Cake, a layered vanilla and chocolate cake filled with rich chocolate candy bar filling and finished with silky vanilla buttercream. Available for preorder October 1–27 or in-store from October 1–31 while supplies last. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a festive family treat.

    El Bolillo Bakery, multiple locations

    Available for preorder through November 2, El Bolillo’s Pan de Muerto makes a festive centerpiece for Día de los Muertos altars and family tables. Other seasonal favorites include pumpkin cream cheese conchas and Champurrado for 12, a rich, chocolatey treat and made with toasted corn flour, piloncillo, cinnamon and anise.

    Ooh La La Sweets, multiple locations

    Treat yourself to bright and colorful Halloween cookies, cupcakes, cake pops and more at this local sweet shop.

    Pizaro’s Pizza, 11177 Katy Freeway, 1000 West Gray

    Pizaro’s is getting spooky with Halloween treats like the Triple Treat Monster Cannolis ($8) – along with the savory Nightmare on Gray Street white pizza ($24 medium/$34 large – through October 31.

    Popfancy, 9393 Bellaire

    The dessert bar has transformed its Fan Cafe into an immersive “Demon Seoul Café,” a K-pop-themed pop-up experience running now through early November. Admission is free, with reservations encouraged, especially on weekends.

    Tiff’s Treats, multiple locations

    Texas’ favorite cookie delivery service has Halloween packages with colorful cookies and add-ons including spooky bite-size treats from Baked by Melissa.

    The Union Kitchen Katy, 9920 Gaston

    On Wednesday, October 29, the Katy location invites guests to a hands-on cupcake decorating class hosted by Cakes by Meagan. Guests will enjoy chef’s lite bites and two glasses of red, white or sangria while creating ghoulishly tasty cupcakes. Tickets are $60 per person for a half-dozen cupcakes, with the option to upgrade to a full dozen for $20 more (plus tax and gratuity). 

    URBE, 1101 Uptown Park

    In celebration of Día de los Muertos, URBE is offering handmade pan de muerto through Sunday, November 2, available at the restaurant on Saturdays or in large to-go orders (placed via URBE’s catering page with two days’ notice). 

    The Waffle Bus, 1835 North Shepherd 

    The Waffle Bus transformed its Heights location into a Halloween wonderland complete with over-the-top decorations and a family-friendly vibe. Stop by for festive treats like the Pumpkin Pie Shake.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Sip or Scream: Houston’s Best Halloween Bites and Events – Houston Press

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    Overview:

    We take a look at the Houston’s best Halloween food and drink happenings.

    It’s officially spooky season in Houston, and the city’s best bars and restaurants are conjuring up festive bites, creepy cocktails and ghoulishly good parties all month long. From pumpkin spice espresso martinis and blood-red cocktails to killer costume parties and even some Dia de los Muertos action, here’s where to eat, drink and celebrate spooky season across the city.

    Betelgeuse Betelgeuse, 2101 Washington, 4500 Montrose

    The fun-loving pizza and cocktail bar gets very into the Halloween spirit with decor and a featured cocktail menu. Highlights include the Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini, Monster Smash, and Blood-Soaked Nightmarish Hellscape, available in 10- or 20-ounce servings. 

    Black Lagoon Pop-Up, 2910 McKinney

    Spooky season means that Nickel City will once again transform into acclaimed Halloween pop-up Black Lagoon, rocking a darkly immersive atmosphere and brand-new cocktail menu from October 1–31. 

    Brasserie 19, 1962 West Gray

    Brasserie 19’s Halloween weekend is back with two days of chic celebrations. On Saturday, October 25 from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., “The Haunting of Versailles” offers Marie Antoinette–inspired opulence, couture costumes and Moët Hennessy cocktails. On Sunday, October 26 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., “Le Spectacle de Merde” continues with a high-energy day-after brunch, DJ GFunk, Campari cocktails, and seasonal brunch specials. Reservations recommended.

    Brennan’s of Houston, 3300 Smith

    Brennan’s hosts a Witchy Brunch on Friday, October 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., inviting guests to don witchy attire and gather their covens for a festive Halloween feast. Reservations are recommended; $35 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

    Brenner’s on the Bayou, 1 Birdsall

    Brenner’s hosts “Boo on the Bayou” on Friday, October 31 starting at 5 p.m., featuring a live DJ, signature cocktails, late-night bites and a costume contest with prizes including a night at The Post Oak Hotel, dinner for four at Grotto and happy hour for six at Cadillac Bar. Free admission; reservations recommended.

    Caracol, 2200 Post Oak

    Get into the Halloween spirit at Caracol’s Noche de Brujas Party on Friday, October 31 from 7 to 11 p.m., featuring passed bites, food and dessert stations, a live DJ, and a costume contest with prizes. Each $85 ticket includes four specialty cocktails. 

    Coltivare, 3320 White Oak

    Executive chef Ryan Pera is bringing a childhood tradition to White Oak with fresh-baked sourdough pretzels available for diners October 30–November 1, featuring Italian-inspired dips like Mostarda and Pecorino beer cheese. On Halloween night, Pera and the crew are preparing a pretzel stand for passing families to enjoy.

    The Cursed Cauldron, 2031 Westcreek 

    Halloween pop-up The Cursed Cauldron has found a permanent home at Botonica, running  through November 2. Guests can explore multiple immersive realms while sipping apothecary-inspired cocktails like Coven’s Calling and Lilith’s Lullaby. Weekly activations include Movie Night with Pumpkin Paint & Sip, Tarot Tuesdays, Bewitched Burlesque and Saturday witch-craft classes. Reservations recommended via OpenTable. 

    Emma Jane, 1226 West Clay

    The teahouse hosts a Murder Mystery Dinner on Sunday, October 26 with seatings at 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Guests enjoy a three-course Paris Opera–themed Masquerade of Shadows, interactive gameplay with secret character roles and prizes for Best Detective and Best Costume. Tickets are $125 per person plus taxes and fees; reservations on OpenTable.

    Endless Bummer, 4500 Montrose

    This gothic tiki speakeasy is transforming into The Haunted Luau for October, serving spooky cocktails like the Be Still My Heart, Doomscroller and Pumpkinhead, each $19. Expect over-the-top Halloween vibes and tiki twists.

    Feges BBQ Spring Branch, 8217 Long Point

    Feges BBQ hosts its annual Halloween Spooktacular on Wednesday, October 29 from 5 to 8 p.m. The family-friendly event features a haunted house, costume contest with prizes at 6:45 p.m., candy giveaways, free kids’ meals and half-off select wine for adults. No reservations required.

    Goode Company Kitchen & Cantina, 2002 West Gray

    Goode Company hosts a ticketed Halloween soirée on Friday, October 31 from 7 p.m. to midnight, transforming its River Oaks cantina into a moody, candlelit haunt. Guests can enjoy  live mariachi, a DJ, costume contests and door prizes, plus elevated bites like lechoncito tacos and duck tinga memelas alongside craft cocktails including the Damn Goode Margarita and Flor de Muerto. General admission is $50, VIP tables available; 21+ with wristband required.

    Heights & Co., 1343 Yale

    Step into HalloweenTown with spooky-themed movies, a decadent S’mores Board and playful cocktails like the Blood Bag Cosmo, Grave Digger Espresso Martini and Witches Brew Margarita. Seating is limited, so reservations via Resy are recommended.

    Hungry’s, multiple locations

    This Halloween, kids in costume eat free at Hungry’s, with family-friendly seasonal specials at locations in Rice Village, 2356 Rice, Memorial/NextDoor, 14714 Memorial, and Spring Branch, 5750 Woodway. Adults can join the Halloween Party at NextDoor Memorial at 7 p.m. for themed cocktails, a DJ and costumes.

    Jethro’s Cocktail Lounge, 95 Tuam 

    All October, Jethro’s transforms into Dead Man Manor, a Victorian Gothic Halloween pop-up with themed décor, seasonal cocktails and nightly events from singles mixers and karaoke to movie nights and Tarot Tuesdays. The month culminates with a Halloween Bash on October 30–31, featuring DJs, dancing and festive drinks, followed by a Día de Los Muertos celebration November 1–2 with a community ofrenda. All events are free and open to the public.

    The Marigold Club, 2531 Kuester

    The Marigold Club goes full spooky-chic this Halloween on October 31 at 5 PM. Dress to impress for the costume contest, sip on seasonal cocktails, and soak up a night of playful frights and festive surprises.

    Messina Hof, 4545 Old Reliance

    Over in Bryan, Messina Hof celebrates the season with two spine-tingling experiences on Friday, October 31. Join the “Murder Mystery Dinner: Chamber of Screams” from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for an interactive whodunit paired with a Halloween buffet and wine. Or, take the “Spooky Cellar Tour” from 6 to 7:30 p.m., featuring ghost stories, four wine tastings, and a souvenir glass—costumes encouraged. Tickets required for both events.

    Montrose Cheese & Wine, 1618 Westheimer

    The cheese and wine shop is inviting guests to bring their pups in costume for the annual dog costume contest, running from Friday, October 24, through Halloween at 5 p.m. The winner, announced on Halloween, will take home a 6-pack of wine plus a bag of Olympia Provisions dog treats for their furry friend.

    Októ, 888 Westheimer
    Októ hosts its first-ever Vampire Ball this Halloween with a DJ spinning at 8 p.m. and a lively, costume-friendly party atmosphere. Guests can sip on spooky-themed cocktails and enjoy dinner with regular reservations.

    Picos, 3601 Kirby 

    Picos celebrates Día de los Muertos with its 2nd Annual H-Town Agave Fest on Saturday, November 1 from 4 to 8 p.m., featuring tequila tastings, cocktails, a DJ, street foods from tacos to elote, face painting and more. The Ofrenda has returned for guests to honor loved ones with photos, and Picos will remain open through the end of the year with more festive events.

    Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House, 113 6th

    Pier 6 brings back its epic Halloween bash on Friday, October 31, rocking spooky décor, all-night happy hour, candy for kids, beats by DJ Ebonix and a cash prize for the best costume. The themed bash is family-friendly and reservations are strongly encouraged.

    Pizaro’s Pizza, 11177 Katy Freeway, 1000 West Gray

    Pizaro’s is getting spooky with Halloween treats like the Triple Treat Monster Cannolis ($8) and the savory Nightmare on Gray Street white pizza ($24 medium/$34 large). Both locations will serve Halloween specials through October 31.

    Zanti Cucina Italiana, 1958 West Gray

    Zanti celebrates Halloween with themed cocktails and events all month. Pre-Halloween Brunch is Saturday, October 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the “Midnight in Milan” party follows Saturday, October 25 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., featuring roaming entertainers, signature cocktails and a costume contest. Reservations recommended.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Walt Disney Elementary Hosts Burbank’s Only Día de los Muertos Festival October 18

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    Disney Elementary Dia de los Muertos

    The Walt Disney Elementary Parent Teacher Association (PTA) will once again host its annual Día de los Muertos Festival, a joyous community celebration of Latino heritage, remembrance, and artistic expression on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the Walt Disney Elementary School campus.

    What began as a small school-based cultural celebration has blossomed into one of Burbank’s most beautiful and anticipated community events created by dozens of dedicated volunteers. Each year, hundreds of families, students, and neighbors gather under strings of colorful papel picado to honor loved ones, celebrate life, and experience the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos. The transformation of the campus is breathtaking—vibrant altars glow with candles and marigolds, live music fills the air, and the scent of authentic cuisine mingles with laughter and joy.

    “Our Día de los Muertos celebration is a powerful way to honor loved ones, share stories, and celebrate the diverse cultures that make Burbank such a vibrant community,” said Myra Stephenson, President of the Walt Disney Elementary PTA. “Each year, this festival reminds us of what makes the Disney community so special. Seeing our campus transform into a sea of color and joy, at the hands of so many dedicated volunteers and community members is truly magical. We are incredibly grateful to the City of Burbank and our local sponsors for helping bring this event to life.” 

    The festival blends tradition, education, art, and community. Attendees can enjoy:

    • Ofrendas (Altars) lovingly crafted by families to honor loved ones who have passed
    • Music and Dance Performances, including traditional Aztec, salsa and folklórico dancers, mariachi, and more! 
    • Hands-on Crafts and Games, for children and families
    • Food Vendors: Tamales, pupusas, tacos, elote, fruta, and concessions will be available for purchase

    Walt Disney Elementary Annual “Día de los Muertos” Festival
    Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
    Location: Walt Disney Elementary School, Burbank, CA
    Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
    Admission: $10 Adults (pre-sale is $5 through October 13); Kids are free 

    This event is supported in part by a Community & Events Program Grant through the City of Burbank.

    Thank you to our generous sponsors for their support:

    • Gain Federal Credit Union – Games
    • Chez Gagne – Concessions
    • Killswitch Inc. – Face Painting
    • East Valley Children’s Dentistry- Crafts

    For more details visit https://disneypta.org/dia-de-los-muertos 

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  • 10 Best Small Towns in Mexico for Fall Travel

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    Fall is one of the best times to explore Mexico’s small towns. The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is cooler in the mountains, and festivals from wine harvests to Día de los Muertos bring traditions to life. Whether you’re drawn to colonial history, bohemian beach towns, or mountain retreats, these destinations are ideal for a fall escape and worth visiting year-round.

    Calle Aldama, one of San Miguel de Allende’s most picturesque streets, offers stunning views of the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel.

    1. San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

    Few towns capture Mexico’s small-town magic like San Miguel de Allende. The first glimpse of its pink-hued Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel soaring above cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a painting. Fall adds an extra dimension: it’s harvest season in Guanajuato wine country, just minutes from town. Vineyards host grape-stomping festivals, food pairings, and outdoor concerts in golden fields framed by the Sierra Madre.

    Beyond wine, San Miguel’s arts community buzzes in autumn. Galleries host openings after the quiet of summer, while rooftop bars offer crisp evenings under a sky that seems bluer in the fall light.

    Things to do: Climb the hillside viewpoint known as El Mirador for sweeping panoramas, shop the vibrant Mercado de Artesanías for handwoven textiles, and time your trip with the Festival de la Calaca, a citywide celebration of Día de los Muertos.

    Where to stay: Hotel Matilda, a design-forward boutique hotel, channels the town’s creative edge. For a splashy stay, Live Aqua Urban Resort blends luxury amenities with views of the historic center.

    Family members around a grave decorated for the Day of the Dead at the Tzintzuntzan Cemetery, Mexico.

    2. Pátzcuaro, Michoacán

    In fall, Pátzcuaro becomes the spiritual center of Mexico’s most famous tradition: Día de los Muertos. On November 1–2, candlelit boats cross Lake Pátzcuaro to Janitzio Island, where families keep vigil beside graves adorned with marigolds, incense, and offerings. It’s one of the most moving cultural experiences a traveler can witness.

    The town itself is steeped in history, with red-tile roofs, whitewashed walls, and plazas shaded by ancient trees. Fall also brings a cool mist to the mornings, perfect for wandering with a cup of atole (a traditional hot corn drink).

    Things to do: Visit Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Salud, shop for lacquerware and copper crafts, and explore the artisan villages around the lake — each specializing in pottery, textiles, or woodwork.

    Where to stay: Hotel Mansion Iturbe, a 17th-century mansion on the main plaza, oozes colonial charm. For something more intimate, Casa de la Real Aduana doubles as an art gallery and guesthouse.

    Real de Catorce, Mexico

    3. Real de Catorce, San Luis Potosí

    At nearly 9,000 feet in Mexico’s northern desert, Real de Catorce feels otherworldly. Once a booming silver town, today it’s a mix of ghostly ruins and bohemian cafes. To reach it, travelers pass through the Ogarrio Tunnel, a one-mile stone passage that sets the tone for the town’s mystical allure.

    Fall is ideal for visiting: the desert heat softens, and the high-altitude light turns the surrounding mountains copper and gold. Pilgrims flock in early October for the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, filling the usually quiet streets with color and music.

    Things to do: Explore abandoned haciendas, take a horseback ride into the desert where peyote grows (sacred to the Huichol people), and browse the quirky shops that now occupy crumbling stone facades.

    Where to stay: Hotel Amor y Paz preserves the town’s history with rustic comfort, while Mesón de la Abundancia offers hearty meals and rooms inside an 18th-century building.

    View of the beautiful colonial Magical Town of Taxco de Alarcon located in the Mexican state of Guerrero.

    4. Taxco, Guerrero

    Perched in the hills of Guerrero, Taxco is a silver city that seems frozen in time. Narrow streets wind past whitewashed buildings with red-tiled roofs, all tumbling down the hillside toward the magnificent Santa Prisca Church.

    In fall, the mountain air is crisp, and the town celebrates cultural festivals leading into Día de los Muertos. Paper marigolds adorn balconies, while silver artisans display jewelry in shop windows that sparkle in the autumn sun.

    Things to do: Ride the cable car for sweeping views, shop the legendary silver markets, and time your visit with the Jornadas Alarconianas, a cultural festival of theater and music honoring a local playwright.

    Where to stay: Hotel Agua Escondida puts you steps from the main square, while De Cantera y Plata Boutique Hotel offers modern luxury with mountain vistas.

    Footprints in the sand at sunset along the Pacific Ocean

    5. Todos Santos, Baja California Sur

    Set against the Pacific, Todos Santos blends Baja’s surf culture with an artsy, slow-paced vibe. The town’s cobblestone streets hide colorful galleries, indie cafes, and boutique hotels, while the beaches — endless stretches of golden sand — are just minutes away.

    Fall is a sweet spot here: days are sunny, evenings are cooler, and the town is quieter than in winter high season. It’s the perfect time to hike into the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, where desert landscapes give way to pine forests.

    Things to do: Catch a wave at Playa Los Cerritos, stroll through art galleries downtown, and savor Baja cuisine — think fish tacos, farm-to-table dishes, and mezcal cocktails. By November, the Todos Santos Fair brings live music, dancing, and local food stalls.

    Where to stay: Hotel San Cristóbal is a stylish beachfront retreat, while Guaycura Boutique Hotel offers colonial charm with a rooftop pool overlooking the town.

    Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, Mexico.

    6. Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato

    Known as the Cradle of Mexican Independence, Dolores Hidalgo is where Father Miguel Hidalgo launched the movement in 1810. Today, the town is a mix of history and color, with vibrant Talavera-tiled buildings and a lively central plaza.

    Fall is quieter after the September 16 Independence Day celebrations, when the town bursts with parades and fireworks. By October, the pace slows, and nearby vineyards welcome visitors for grape harvest festivals.

    Things to do: Tour the Museo Casa Hidalgo, savor Dolores’ quirky ice cream (yes, tequila, avocado, and corn are popular flavors), and shop for ceramic tiles and pottery. Take a short drive into the countryside for wine tastings at Viñedos San Francisco or Cuna de Tierra.

    Where to stay: Hotel Casa Pozo del Rayo offers boutique rooms downtown. For a vineyard escape, stay at Viñedos San Francisco just outside town.

    Diagonal panoramic view from above, showcasing the church and surrounding buildings in Mazamitla, Jalisco

    7. Mazamitla, Jalisco

    In the Sierra del Tigre mountains, Mazamitla feels worlds away from the bustle of Guadalajara. Its alpine-style cabins and misty pine forests have earned it the nickname “Mexican Switzerland.”

    Fall transforms the town into a cozy retreat. Cool evenings call for fireplaces and hot chocolate, while October’s Fiestas Patronales fill the streets with parades and fireworks. Trails around town burst with color as the foliage shifts from green to gold.

    Things to do: Hike to El Salto Waterfall, shop the plaza for sweets like cajeta (goat’s milk caramel), and admire the neo-Gothic Parroquia de San Cristóbal.

    Where to stay: Families love the rustic cabins at Monteverde Mazamitla, while couples may prefer Huerta Real Hotel, a boutique option surrounded by forest.

    colonial city Comitan Mexico

    8. Comitán, Chiapas

    Colonial but laid-back, Comitán is a gateway to Chiapas’ natural treasures. Fall’s cooler temperatures make it ideal for day trips to Lagunas de Montebello National Park, where 59 lakes shimmer in shades of blue and green, and to the cascading El Chiflón Waterfalls.

    The town itself is a delight, with wide plazas, colorful markets, and museums dedicated to Maya culture. Evenings are best spent in the zócalo, sipping coffee as marimba bands play.

    Things to do: Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo, explore Museo de Arte Hermila Domínguez, and drive to Tenam Puente, a Maya archaeological site with panoramic views.

    Where to stay: Hotel Nak’An Secreto Maya blends boutique comfort with Maya-inspired design. Parador-Museo Santa María, a restored hacienda, doubles as a living museum with antique furnishings.

    San Pancho (San Francisco), Nayarit, México - 2024-04-12: Footprints trail across the golden sands of the beach at San Pancho, where the rhythmic surf meets the shoreline, and a serene tropical landscape with lush hills and scattered beach umbrellas invites relaxation and contemplation under the wide-open sky.

    9. San Pancho (San Francisco), Nayarit

    A quieter neighbor to Sayulita, San Pancho offers a laid-back mix of surf, art, and community. Its wide beach feels endless compared to the crowded sands next door, and the town itself is a hub for sustainability and creativity.

    Fall is shoulder season: warm days, fewer crowds, and plenty of room on the beach. The sunsets are some of the most spectacular along the Riviera Nayarit, with the sky streaked pink and orange as surfers ride the last waves.

    Things to do: Visit the EntreAmigos community center, browse art at the San Pancho Collective, and catch a performance at the town’s cultural center. In November, festivals and surf competitions bring the town to life.

    Where to stay: Hotel Cielo Rojo charms with organic dining and artistic decor. For a beachfront option, Casa Mamica blends comfort with sustainability.

    Zipolite, Mexico- April 3, 2025: Bathers relaxing at Sunset on the Beach at Playa del Amor

    10. Zipolite, Oaxaca

    For a truly free-spirited vibe, head to Zipolite, Oaxaca’s legendary bohemian beach town. Known for its clothing-optional sands and laid-back pace, Zipolite is warm and welcoming in the fall, with long sunny days and fewer visitors before high season kicks in.

    Rustic beach shacks sit alongside yoga retreats, while nearby Mazunte adds a more family-friendly balance with turtle conservation centers and mellow beaches. Together, they make a perfect fall escape for travelers who prefer the offbeat side of Mexico.

    Things to do: Stretch out on Playa Zipolite, take yoga or meditation classes overlooking the Pacific, and explore tide pools at low tide. Head to Mazunte for eco-tours and the Mexican Turtle Center.

    Where to stay: Hotel El Alquimista is a beachfront adults-only option, while Casa Kalmar offers boutique villas with sweeping ocean views.

    From the candlelit cemeteries of Pátzcuaro to the surf breaks of San Pancho, Mexico’s small towns come alive in the fall. Cooler weather makes highland towns inviting, while coastal escapes are quieter before peak season. Whether you want history, art, food, or simply a slower pace of life, these destinations prove that fall is the perfect season to discover the heart of Mexico — and each one rewards travelers year-round.

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  • Pan de Muerto is a Day of the Dead holiday staple, and this family-owned bakery makes it fresh year-round

    Pan de Muerto is a Day of the Dead holiday staple, and this family-owned bakery makes it fresh year-round

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    MONTEBELLO, Calif. — Chapala Bakery, a family-owned bakery that has been handed down over several generations, is renowned for their mouthwatering pan de muerto, a traditional Mexican sweet bread enjoyed especially during the Day of the Dead. While the bakery produces pan de muerto year-round, their output significantly increases in the weeks leading up to the holiday, as families and friends gather to honor their loved ones.

    “Around October and November we definitely get a big demand,” said Daniella De la Torre, who manages Chapala Bakery in Montebello, California. “The different versions that we sell are the ones that have just sugar or the ones that have sesame seeds on them.”

    “Food’s important for any holiday,” said local resident Jovita Escobar. “We love to have turkey for Thanksgiving. For Christmas, if you’re Hispanic, you love to have tamales. And for Dia de los Muertos, you have to have your Dia de Los Muertos bread.”

    Chapala Bakery
    2472 W Whittier Blvd
    Montebello, CA 90640
    (323) 720-1225
    https://chapalabakery.weebly.com/

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    CCG

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  • Director of “Coco” reflects on film’s lasting impact

    Director of “Coco” reflects on film’s lasting impact

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    Friday, October 25, 2024 12:14AM

    Director of "Coco" reflects on film's lasting impact

    Director of “Coco” reflects on film’s lasting impact“Coco” co-director Adrian Molina talks about the lasting impact of the Oscar-winning film.

    EMERYVILLE, Calif. — The Disney-Pixar movie “Coco” was a huge box office hit and won the Oscar for best animated feature. It also brought the beauty of Dia de Los Muertos to audiences all over the world.

    In a special interview at Pixar Animation Studios, the co-director of “Coco,” Adrian Molina, reflected on the lasting impact of an animated masterpiece that continues to spread the message of remembering and celebrating loved ones.

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    CCG

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  • SoCal gears up for Day of the Dead celebrations. Here’s a list of some events

    SoCal gears up for Day of the Dead celebrations. Here’s a list of some events

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    Southern California is getting ready to celebrate an old Mexican tradition that honors and celebrates loved ones who have departed this earth.

    The Day of the Dead is celebrated on November 1 and 2, but events to kick off the colorful cultural event are already set to take place in October.

    The celebration usually honors the life of the deceased with colorful offerings and altars, which may include photos, favorite dishes, candles, flowers, especially the bright orange cempasúchil, confetti, and sugar skulls, along with bread and items that once belonged to the person.

    The first Day of the Dead, also known as All Saints’ Day, honors deceased children and infants. This day is also referred to as “Day of the Innocents.”  

    November 2, All Souls’ Day, honors all the adults.

    Here’s a list of some Day of the Dead events:

    Los Angeles County

    • Oct. 25 – Nov. 2: The Plaza Olvera Día de Los Muertos Festival will entertain the family and display colorful alters, free sweet bread and ceremonial blessings, along with Aztec dancers. Schedule of events here.
    • Oct. 26: Hollywood Forever 25th annual Día de Los Muertos. The largest celebration outside of Mexico will feature more than 100 alters, live music, and Aztec dancers. The all-day event has three entry windows. Tickets and schedule events here.
    • Oct. 26: Plaza de la Raza celebrates the 14th annual El Velorio with live music, art exhibitions and much more. The event is for those 21 and over. Tickets are available here.
    • Oct. 26: San Pedro 12th annual Dia de Los Muertos Festival. The free event will include alter displays, live entertainment, artisan craft vendors, catrina costume contests and more. More info here.
    • Oct. 26: Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. The celebration will take place from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Families will be able to enjoy paper mache sculptures throughout Third Street, live folkloric dances, mariachi music and catrinas up to 14 feet tall. More information here.
    • Oct. 27: Día de Los Muertos, Forest Lawn, Glendale. The Glendale and Covina Hills locations will host the annual celebration from Noon to 3 p.m. The family-friendly event will display alters, folkloric dances, mariachi music and more. Click here for more information on this free event.
    • Nov. 2: Self Help Graphics, Día de Los Muertos, Los Angeles. The organization is inviting everyone to its 51st annual celebration at the East LA County Civic Center Park from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

    Orange County

    • Oct. 26: Mainplace Mall invites everyone to join the fun activities of this cultural event where families can get their face painted, participate in workshops, and enjoy performances among other things. Click here for a schedule of events.
    • Nov. 1: Santa Ana Parks and Recreation will celebrate the third annual Día de Los Muertos with altars, art making, face painting, games, and snacks for the whole family. The 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. will be at the Roosevelt-Walter Community Center.
    • Nov. 2:  El Centro Cultural de México invites everyone to their 21st annual Noche de Altares. The free event will display altars and enjoy cultural performances and live music. Children will be able to get their faces painted for free and participate in art workshops. The event is from Noon to 9 p.m. on 4th Street between Ross and Broadway.

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    Elizabeth Chavolla

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  • 5 Unusual Day Of The Dead Food And Drinks In Mexico City

    5 Unusual Day Of The Dead Food And Drinks In Mexico City

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    Dia de los muertos, the Day of the Dead, is observed across Mexico on November 1st and 2nd. The lively celebration includes colorful decorations and elaborate ofrendas (altars) that feature food and drinks to welcome back the souls of the departed to the world of the living. And while there are iconic dishes and beverages that must be present on every table and altar, some producers are coming up with creative takes on some of the classics. Here are five that you can enjoy in Mexico City right now.

    Pulque de cempasúchil

    Doña Vero runs a very popular restaurant, known for its menu featuring unusual fare such as mezcal marinated venison quesadillas and offbeat seasonal specialties. For Day of the Dead festivities she serves pulque – an ancient fermented beverage derived from agave sap – infused with marigold flowers, known in Mexico as cempasúchil (cem-pah-soo-cheel). It’s a family recipe that her mother used to prepare for her grandparent’s altar.

    Cempasúchil flowers are iconic of the festivities, thought to attract the souls of the dead to the altars thanks to their strong, unique aroma. The flowers are edible, of course, and give a vibrant orange color to any food or drink.

    The mildly alcoholic beverage may be an acquired taste for some, but Doña Vero sells mug after frosty mug to her legions of fans.

    Pan de Muerto Negro

    At Panaderia Rosetta, the high end bakery of renowned chef Elena Reygadas, the seasonal hit is pan de muerto. This sweet, brioche-like loaf is flavored with anise and orange blossom water, decorated with strips of dough to resemble bones. It is not a Day of the Dead celebration without it, widely enjoyed with coffee or hot chocolate for breakfast or late night supper.

    At Rosetta, however, they added a twist, coating the breads with powdered corn husk ash before adding the traditional granulated sugar topping. The result is striking and delicious, and a homage to ancient pre-Hispanic cooking techniques.

    Ofrenda Flavored Ice Creams

    Heladeria Escandón is a boutique ice cream shop owned by Ilian Castañeda Vázquez and Maximiliano Olvera García, in the heart of Colonia Condesa. Their goal is to produce artisanal ice cream and “punksicles” in unusual shapes and flavors, highlighting seasonal offerings and creative combinations.

    For Day of the Dead, Max has transformed the whole ice cream case into a frozen ofrenda, featuring flavors that evoke traditional foods usually found in people’s altars.

    Among those represented are cinnamon cookie, guava-tejocote (hawthorn), and double chocolate, next to unusual offerings such as Mexican pumpkin, pan de muerto, and yes, cempasúchil. He uses fresh flowers to make an infusion, then adds tiny flecks of petals and leaves and blends them into the creamy mixture. The result is sweet and floral, with hints of vanilla custard. To complement the ice creams, the team is also making dark chocolate skulls and gilded pan de muerto.

    Gordimuertas

    Made from corn dough and filled with a variety of ingredients, gorditas are a street food staple in Mexico. At the famous Jamaica Market, in the prepared food section, Las Weritas are famous for their generously filled snacks with all the trimmings. This year, the popular stall is taking them one step beyond, making them with blue corn and in the shape of pan de muerto.

    La Nahuala is filled with sauteed squash blossoms and mushrooms, accompanied by Philadelphia cheese for an extra creamy consistency. If you like it spicy order La Llorona, same as Nahuala but with chile habanero added for that extra tear-inducing zing.

    Victoria Cempasúchil

    Last but not least, Cervecería Modelo has entered the flavored beer arena with Victoria Cempasúchil. Made in Mexico with cempasúchil flower extract, it doesn’t have the strong aroma or flavor of the flowers, but it is a unique brew. Yellowish orange in color, it is slightly cloudy, with light floral and cereal notes on the nose. The flavor is sweet and malty, mildly bitter and refreshing. At 4.2% AVB, it is meant to be paired with the foods of the season such as mole, spicy foods, and even pan de muerto.

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    Claudia Alarcón, Contributor

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