Altares Exhibition: A Celebration of Día de los Muertos

October 16, 2025 – November 2, 2024

Exhibitions are free with General Admission.

Join us at the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) for the annual Altares exhibition, a vibrant and heartfelt tribute to Día de los Muertos. This exhibition invites the public to view beautifully crafted altars, or ofrendas, created in celebration of the holiday that honors loved ones who have passed.

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a cherished Mexican tradition blending Mesoamerican rituals, European religious practices, and Spanish culture. Celebrated from November 1 to November 2, families welcome back the souls of the departed through food, drink, and joyful gatherings. Here at IMAS, we embrace this rich cultural heritage with our yearly festival and exhibition of community-built altars.

The Altares exhibition offers visitors a deeper appreciation of the traditions, beliefs, and artistry behind Día de los Muertos. This year, we are partnering with numerous local organizations to create altars that reflect the diversity of the Rio Grande Valley, with the official theme to be announced soon. Each altar is a symbol of love, respect, and remembrance, telling the unique stories of the individuals being honored.

Traditionally, altars range from three to seven tiers, and each element of the altar serves a purpose in welcoming the dead. At IMAS, we’ve constructed a beautiful three-tier altar. The top tier displays photos of the honored individuals, inviting them back to the celebration. The second tier includes personal mementos and offerings of favorite foods like mole, tamales, and pan de muerto. For adults, tequila or mezcal might be placed on the altar, while children’s altars often include their favorite toys. The third tier is meant to refresh the souls upon their return, complete with water, salt, candles, and the fragrant cleansing smoke of copal incense.

The intricate design of the altars represents the four elements—earth, wind, fire, and water—symbolizing the connection between the living and the spirit world. Each offering and decoration has deep cultural significance, allowing visitors to experience the beauty and meaning behind this beloved tradition.

We invite you to come explore these altars and learn more about this profound celebration of life, memory, and culture. The Altares exhibition will be on display from October 16 to November 2, 2024, and is included with general admission.