Chicago families open homes and museums for Day of the Dead

The Benavides family converted their Oriole Park residence into a public celebration for the second consecutive year. The home, located on Gregory Street, features a light display inspired by the Disney film Coco and a traditional family ofrenda. Cesar Benavides noted that the event has evolved beyond a specific cultural group. He said, "Years ago, the ofrenda was more of just Mexican culture, but like, we're seeing people from all backgrounds, asking questions." Benavides described the gathering as a way to reflect on legacy and the cycle of life and death.

The display has attracted a diverse crowd. Jackson Natale, a 9-year-old visitor, cited the skeletons and details from the movie as his favorite parts. His mother, Kelly Natale, said the setup serves as a tribute to keeping family memories alive. The Benavides family plans to keep the lights up for Halloween, advising visitors to bring rain gear if they attend on a wet day.

In Pilsen, the National Museum of Mexican Art is hosting its 40th annual Day of the Dead exhibit. Gallery educator Kaelyn Andrade stated that the event is drawing attendees from outside the Mexican community. Andrade explained that many cultures view death as a continuation rather than an ending. She said, "Many of the communities believe that when a person dies that death is not an end, but it was a journey. It was a continuance." The museum is also honoring individuals who died in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody, including Silverio Villegas Gonzalez, who was killed by an officer in Franklin Park last year.

Andrade noted that the impact of immigration enforcement has strengthened the community. She added, "It's still happening. It's still affecting the community. If anything, it's created more strength." The museum's exhibit runs through the holiday period, providing a space for local reflection and remembrance.

In Little Village, the Chamber of Commerce launched its own two-day celebration this weekend. The event is in its second year and follows the Operation Midway Blitz from last year. The goal is to bring visitors to the neighborhood and support more than 50 local restaurants and businesses that have faced challenges due to immigration enforcement. Alfredo Palafox of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce said, "We die as a community the day we all give up. So, this is a thing for all of us to come together, and realize that together, we're stronger."

These events represent a growing trend in Chicago. While the Benavides family focuses on a specific pop-culture connection, the museum and the Chamber of Commerce emphasize broader community resilience. All three venues are open to the public this weekend, offering different ways to engage with the tradition.