Día de los Muertos Picnic at MoCA Arlington

Mariachi, a Catrina Parade and Lotería

MoCA Arlington's Día de los Muertos picnic is Sunday, November 1, from 5 to 8, and it's free with no registration. The clocks go back that morning, so it'll be dark early, which suits the candles and marigolds.

Mariachi Estrellas plays at 5:30 and again at 7. At 6:20 there's a Catrina parade: anyone dressed as a Catrina can walk in it, and every Catrina gets a little trinket. A folklórico dance group performs at 6:30, and lotería games, called by a Catrina, run all night. There's also a poetry reading at 5:15 with Arlington County's Poet Laureate and a Washington-Liberty High School student.

If you have someone to remember, bring a photo for the community ofrenda. It's a sweet way to introduce kids to the tradition. The museum is near Virginia Square Metro, so it's an easy Sunday evening without a parking hunt.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Dress as a Catrina. Anyone in a Catrina look can join the 6:20 parade and gets a trinket.
• ✓Bring a photo. There's a community ofrenda for loved ones.
• ✓Pick a mariachi set. Mariachi Estrellas plays at 5:30 and 7.
• ✓Plan for the dark. The clocks change that morning, so sunset comes early.
• ✓No need to register. It's free. The museum has an optional RSVP on Eventbrite.

Questions Parents Ask

When is the Día de los Muertos picnic at MoCA Arlington?

Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 5 to 8pm at MoCA Arlington, 3550 Wilson Blvd.

Is it free?

Yes. It's free and no registration is required.

What time is the Catrina parade?

The Catrina parade is at 6:20pm. Anyone dressed as a Catrina can join and gets a small trinket.

When does the mariachi play?

Mariachi Estrellas performs at 5:30pm and 7pm.