Old Town to host first ‘Day of the Dead’ Festival this November

Guests at a Día de los Muertos festival

Old Town Swindon will host its first Day of the Dead Festival on Sunday 2 November 2025, bringing colour, music and international culture to Old Town.

The free community event, organised by the Old Town Business Association, will feature live performances, Latin American food, children’s workshops, art installations, and a closing street parade. A central part of the day will be a public ofrenda – a shared altar space where residents can place photos and mementoes of loved ones as a respectful nod to the traditions of Día de los Muertos.

Visitors are encouraged to take part in the celebrations by bringing a photo of a loved one to add to the community ofrenda, dressing in smart clothes with traditional skull-inspired face paint, and bringing a battery-powered candle to light up the streets as part of the evening parade.

Kris Talikowski, Chair of the Old Town Business Association, said:
“This is a big moment for Swindon. We’ve always worked to create events that bring people together and give Swindon something to be proud of. With Day of the Dead, we’re building on a festival that is world-renowned, but doing it in a way that respects its heritage and makes sense for our community. We think it will be a unique addition to Old Town’s cultural life.”

The Day of the Dead Festival follows a successful summer programme of Sunday Socials and comes ahead of the Christmas Festival, continuing Old Town’s reputation as one of Swindon’s main hubs for public events.

The event has a suggested donation of £1.50 per person. You can book your tickets here.