At the Bronx's NYBG, a Month-Long Día de los Muertos Brings Marigolds, Puppets and a Parade

The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is hosting a month-long Día de los Muertos celebration through November 2, new to the Garden this year. Marigolds, a community ofrenda, artfully arranged calaveras and a towering Catrina adorned with flowers line a trail led by friendly "spirit guides," all set against fall foliage and pumpkins.

Several of the strongest days are still ahead. On October 24 and 25, Bronx-based teaching artist Blanka Amezkua leads papel picado and silk-flower workshops from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., monarch butterfly puppets roam the Everett Children's Adventure Garden, and the band Son Pecadores plays son jarocho at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. On October 31 and November 2, workshops run 1 to 5 p.m., giant La Catrina and skeleton puppets by Mascara Viva roam the grounds, and MAZarte Dance Company performs Mexican folk dances every half hour, including the candle-topped "La Bruja" from Veracruz.

On October 31 from 2 to 3 p.m., the Bronx Children's Museum reads An Ofrenda for Perro, followed by a clay alebrije workshop for ages 4 to 10. The parade steps off Sunday, November 1 at 2 p.m. The trail and the Children's Adventure Garden close at 5 p.m. on November 1 and 2.

Visitors can add a photo or written memory to the community altar. Items become part of the installation and aren't returned, and food and candles aren't permitted.