Marigolds, candlelight and sugar skulls are coming to Bucharest. This autumn, the Embassy of Mexico in Romania and the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant (Muzeul Național al Țăranului Român), together with members of the Mexican community in Romania, invite everyone to discover one of the most representative traditions of Mexican culture: Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead).
For ten days, a traditional altar and a dedicated art exhibition bring the colours, symbols and spirit of this celebration to one of Bucharest’s most beloved museums, with free entry for all.
The Altar Inauguration: Friday, October 30, 18:30
The celebration opens on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 18:30, with the inauguration of the Day of the Dead altar in the museum’s Media Hall (Sala Media). Access is from Strada Monetăriei no. 3.
The evening comes with a musical moment by Mexican artists Fernando Alephsus and Arwen Valdés, who will perform songs dedicated to this tradition, celebrated across Mexico in loving memory of those who have passed away.
In Mexico, the ofrenda (altar) is the heart of Día de Muertos: a layered display of marigold flowers, candles, photographs, papel picado, pan de muerto and the favourite foods of departed loved ones, all meant to welcome their spirits home for a joyful reunion.
Catrinas, Mexican Memories
Alongside the altar, visitors can explore the exhibition “Catrinas, Mexican Memories” („Catrinas, amintiri mexicane”), bringing together works by Mexican artists Julio César Rivera and Raúl Balkazar.
La Catrina, the elegant skeleton lady in her wide-brimmed hat, is the most recognisable face of Día de Muertos, a playful reminder that memory, beauty and celebration go hand in hand. Together, the exhibition and the altar offer a rare chance to explore the symbols, artistic expressions and cultural meanings of a festival that blends memory, art and music into a heartfelt tribute to loved ones.
A Bridge Between Two Cultures
Through this initiative, the Embassy of Mexico and the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant bring Mexican cultural heritage closer to Bucharest and encourage intercultural dialogue through tradition and art.
The setting feels especially fitting. Home to one of the richest collections of Romanian folk heritage, the museum is a place where remembrance, ritual and craftsmanship are celebrated every day, making it a natural meeting point for two cultures that honour their ancestors with colour, music and care.
Whether you grew up with Día de Muertos or are discovering it for the first time, this is a warm, moving and beautiful way to spend an autumn afternoon in Bucharest.
Plan Your Visit
- Event: Día de Muertos altar and the exhibition “Catrinas, Mexican Memories”
- Inauguration: Friday, October 30, 2026, 18:30, with live music by Fernando Alephsus and Arwen Valdés
- Dates: October 30 – November 8, 2026
- Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00–18:00
- Venue: National Museum of the Romanian Peasant (Muzeul Național al Țăranului Român), Media Hall, access from Strada Monetăriei 3, Bucharest
- Getting there: Metro M1/M2 to Piața Victoriei, then a short walk
- Entry: Free
