DDM is a movement.
A North Shore destination to celebrate the Day of the Dead — la tradición que nos une.
The Spirit of DDM Week
Día de los Muertos Week is more than a celebration — it’s a movement that honors memory, uplifts culture, and strengthens community. What began as a neighborhood initiative has grown into a collective effort that unites residents, artists, and local businesses through shared creativity and purpose.
Our Mission
To foster cultural understanding, connection, and pride by transforming Highland Park into a destination that celebrates art, life, and tradition.
Why it Matters
In a world that moves fast, DDM Week invites us to pause and remember — to celebrate where we come from and who we’ve lost. It creates a bridge between cultures and generations, reminding us that tradition and modern life can coexist beautifully.
“Día de los Muertos nos une —weaving together stories, families, and traditions that live on in community.”
What Happens During DDM Week
For one week each fall, Highland Park fills with color and meaning. Memorial Park becomes home to the main altar, marigolds, and moments of reflection, while local businesses and residents join in with art, food, music, and storytelling.
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DDM Week is guided by artists, designers, and cultural advocates who believe in creating authentic, accessible, and meaningful experiences. From handcrafted altars to live music and culinary pairings, every detail reflects a balance of heritage and creativity.
Community collaborations include:
Local businesses
Artists and designers
Cultural arts and community organization
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DDM Week thrives through collaboration. Local businesses, community organizations, and residents make it possible through their creativity, in-kind support, and sponsorship. Together, we’re building a lasting cultural destination.
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DDM Week is supported in part by the Highland Park Downtown Alliance Spotlight Grant and aims to grow each year with more participation, cultural education, and artistic exchange. The event’s mission aligns with community goals of inclusion, equity, and cultural pride.
Impact goals:
Cultural Celebration: Share and honor Mexican traditions with authenticity.
Community Engagement: Unite residents and visitors through art, food, and shared experiences.
Support Local Business: Drive visibility and foot traffic to Highland Park’s small business community.
Education: Inspire youth and families through learning and artistic expression.
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Whether you attend, volunteer, or sponsor, your participation helps keep culture alive. Join us in celebrating life, art, and memory in the heart of Highland Park.
“Día de los Muertos nos une —weaving together stories, families, and traditions that live on in community.”
DDM WEEK 2025
The celebration begins with the Opening Ceremony at Memorial Park — a community gathering filled with music, family friendly activities and the first altar unveiling. Local leaders, artists, and families come together to honor loved ones and officially open DDM Week.
Highland Park comes alive with free community events, unique offers, and Día de los Muertos–inspired activities open to all. The new DDM Experience Pass invites participants to go deeper — exploring curated stops, tastings, and workshops that link each experience back to the heart of the celebration: the altar at Memorial Park.
The week culminates with Tarde de Catrinas, a cultural runway and closing celebration honoring style, tradition, and remembrance. Participants of all ages showcase their creativity, while the community gathers for music, small bites, and awards that close DDM Week with joy and unity.