Annual Día de los Muertos Celebración and Alebrijes: Spirit Animals Art Exhibition

Donna Miller of Miller Consulting produced and directed the Annual Día de los Muertos Celebración and Alebrijes: Spirit Animals Art Exhibition, presented by the Hughes Family Tribute Center. Over the course of two weeks, hundreds of visitors gathered to experience this vibrant cultural event, which transformed the historic Art Deco Crown Hill Mausoleum into a powerful space for art, remembrance, and community connection.

Anchoring the Celebración was a central art installation, Alebrijes, by artist Ricardo Alarcón, surrounded by an exhibition spotlighting works by regional artists. Together, these elements honored the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos while showcasing contemporary interpretations and local creative voices within an iconic setting.

The Celebración also featured a standout performance by Carolina Imperial, who was recently named 2025 New Artist of the Year at the Catholic Music Awards in Rome and competed in México Canta, a prestigious initiative of the Government of Mexico’s Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Mexican Music Council.

Adding to the visual and performing arts experience were the striking catrina designs of Alfa de las Catrinas by Anel Anaya, live music by Mariachi Michoacán, and dynamic dance performances by Grupo Pakal, specialists in traditional Mayan dance, along with folklórico presentations. The event welcomed families with hands-on art activities, children’s entertainment, and a variety of food, beverage, and artisan vendors.