Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a colorful celebration of life and remembering loved ones who have passed. Traditionally, this Mexican holiday is a time for families to welcome back the souls of relatives with food, drinks, music and celebration. It typically lasts four days, Oct 31 through Nov 2. 

There are plenty of fun, family-friendly activities around Raleigh tonight, Oct 27, Saturday, Oct 28, Sunday, Oct 29 and Thursday, Nov 2, for all to enjoy and participate in.

Tonight, from 5 pm to 8 pm, the Historic Oakwood Cemetery is hosting the Dia de Oakwood opening ceremony. Here, you can learn from Mexican Consulate Claudia Velasco, artist Peter Marin, activity and event organizer Angela Salamanca and Oakwood Cemetery Director Robin Simonton. There will also be music, dancing and free face painting. 

On Saturday, Oct 28, from 9 am to 2 pm, at Centro Restaurant, there will be a street festival complete with a parade, kids activities, costume contests, performances and more. There will also be a Day of the Dead 5k held to raise money for the Brentwood Boys & Girls Club that you can register for beforehand. 

Free streaming of the movie Coco will be playing at the Historic Oakwood Cemetery on Sunday, Oct 28. Other festivities, including music, dancing, face painting and food trucks, begin at 4:30 pm. The movie starts at 6 pm, so bring your comfiest blanket or chairs! 

Dia de los Muertos and closing ceremony will occur at the Historic Oakwood Cemetery on Thursday, Nov 2, from 4 pm to 8 pm. There will be live music, dancing and free face painting as people gather around to send their loved ones back home. A Catrina Parade will start at 6 pm; all are welcome to dress up.