INDIANAPOLIS — Day of the Dead celebrations arrived a little early in downtown Indianapolis this weekend.
Día de los Muertos is typically commemorated on Nov. 1 and 2, but the Eiteljorg Museum decided it couldn't wait any longer to host the fun.
Around 5,000 people attended the event that featured musical performances, a parade, art and other activities, all helping educate guests on the history and celebration of Mexican culture.
The museum has been celebrating the holiday since 2012.
"What's really great about this event, it's not just for the Latino community it's for everybody," the museum's president said. "For us, it's about educating people about other cultures, as much as celebrating the Día de los Muertos."
This isn't the museum's only celebration for the Day of the Dead. A community art exhibit will run through Nov. 2, 2023.
The "We Remember," a remembrance for those lost to the COVID-19 pandemic, continues until Nov. 19, 2023.
What is Día de los Muertos?
Día de los Muertos, commonly known as the "Day of the Dead," is a Mexican holiday where families welcome back the souls of relatives for a reunion that typically comes with food, drinks, music and other celebrations.
The holiday is celebrated from Oct. 31 through Nov. 2.
According to tradition, the gates of heaven are opened at midnight on Halloween, and the spirits of children can rejoin their families for 24 hours. The spirits of adults are able to do the same on the designated Day of the Dead on Nov. 2.
For more information on the holiday and the Eiteljorg Museum, click here.