One of Nashville's most colorful cultural celebrations returns to Cheekwood Estate and Gardens on Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1.

The 27th annual El Día de los Muertos festival invites Middle Tennessee families to experience traditions associated with the Day of the Dead in Mexico and Latin America.

Despite its timing near Halloween, the celebration has a distinct meaning centered on remembering and honoring loved ones who have died.

Colorful displays, art and shared traditions give visitors opportunities to understand how remembrance can also be an expression of love and continuing family connection.

Elaborate altars, often known as ofrendas, are an important part of the event's educational experience.

These displays help explain how photographs, flowers and meaningful objects can honor the lives and memories of relatives and ancestors.

Traditional music and dance performances bring another dimension to the festival, while art activities offer ways for younger visitors to participate.

Guests can also explore a marketplace and sample cuisine associated with the celebration.

The festival's appeal lies in the chance to learn from Nashville's Latin American neighbors while enjoying a beautiful autumn setting.

Rather than treating the traditions merely as seasonal decorations, the event invites visitors to consider the values and family stories behind them.

Cheekwood describes this as its 27th year hosting the celebration, reflecting a long-running commitment to cultural programming.

Both festival days run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Drive in Nashville.

Timed-entry admission tickets are required, and parking capacity may fill during the busy weekend.

Cheekwood advises that once its parking reaches capacity, walk-up entry may be limited to visitors arriving by rideshare.

Guests should reserve tickets in advance and review current parking instructions before leaving home.

Families may want to allow time for the performances, cultural displays and gardens instead of treating the visit as a quick stop.

For 615 Daily readers, El Día de los Muertos offers something more lasting than a costume outing: a welcoming opportunity to celebrate culture, memory and community.