Dia de los Muertos 2026 in Yuma AZ: Riverfront Event

On Saturday, October 24, Colorado River State Historic Park will glow with marigolds, candlelight, and music for the sixth annual Día de los Muertos celebration, hosted by the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area. It runs from 5 to 10 p.m. at 201 N. Fourth Ave., and it has grown into one of Yuma's most loved fall traditions.

Día de los Muertos is a Mexican tradition honoring loved ones who have died. It is not a time of mourning. It is a celebration of their lives, their stories, and the memories they left behind. In Yuma, with its deep Mexican and Mexican-American roots, the holiday lands with real meaning.

What to expect at this year's celebration

The park will come alive with live music all evening, including performances by the Chavez Family Band and Amor Prohibido, the Selena tribute band headlining the night. Traditional folklórico dancers and mariachi performances round out the entertainment.

Beyond the stage, the evening is built around the classic elements of the tradition. You can wander past beautiful altars created in honor of loved ones, admire the artistry of elaborate Catrina costumes in the costume contest, enter or vote in the altar contest, add your piece to a community mural, and browse works by local artists. Food and drinks are sold separately by local vendors.

How much are tickets?

General admission is $15. Youth tickets for ages 4 to 17 are $10 and include face painting and arts and crafts. Buy online ahead of time to skip the gate line. Note that these are special-event prices, separate from the park's regular admission.

Where exactly is it?

One bit of confusion to clear up: the event announcement appears on the Yuma Territorial Prison museum's website, but the celebration is at Colorado River State Historic Park at 201 N. Fourth Ave., not at the prison. Put the right address in your GPS.

More Day of the Dead in Yuma

Arizona Western College is hosting a Catrinas and Catrines costume contest for Día de los Muertos in partnership with the Consulate of Mexico in Yuma and the Yuma County Arts and Cultural Group, a great option for students and families. And if you missed the Yuma Territorial Prison's own Dia de los Muertos celebration in partnership with the Chicano Art Collective, keep it on your radar for next year: it features art walks, face painting, and a parade.

Why this one matters for Yuma

Yuma sits on the border, and this holiday is woven into the culture of Somerton, San Luis, and families across the valley. Whether Día de los Muertos has been part of your family for generations or you are experiencing it for the first time, this celebration is one of those evenings that reminds you why living in Yuma is different from anywhere else.

Thinking about making Yuma your home? A city that celebrates like this is a city worth living in. Book a complimentary consultation with Johanna Suggs, licensed Arizona real estate agent with eXp Realty, and let's talk about finding your place here.