Bradenton's most colorful celebration is back! On November 7 and 8, 2025, the Village of the Arts will once again transform into a lively, art-filled destination for the 21st Annual DÃa De Los Muertos Festival of the Skeletons. This beloved event presented by the Village of the Arts Merchants Group, continues to blend creativity, culture, and remembrance in true Bradenton style.
Honoring Our Own
The 2025 Festival of the Skeletons carries the heartfelt theme "Honoring Our Own," paying tribute to the people who helped shape the Village over the past 25 years--especially the community's beloved founding father, Herbie Rose.
At the center of the event will be the Village Community Shrine, surrounded by dozens of smaller altars created by local artists and residents. Visitors are invited to contribute to the Memory Wall, leaving notes, photos, and keepsakes that honor loved ones who have passed. It's a beautiful reminder of how art and memory come together to keep community spirit alive.
A Weekend of Color, Culture, and Connection
Throughout the weekend, the Village of the Arts will come alive with music, food, and creative energy. Each gallery, studio, and shop will showcase DÃa de los Muertos-themed art and décor, while the streets will be filled with colorful skeletons and papel picado banners fluttering in the breeze.
Here's what festival-goers can look forward to at this year's Festival of the Skeletons 2025:
Outdoor skeleton art and free photo boards for visitors to enjoy and capture memories
Two taco trucks serving delicious Mexican favorites
Free homemade munchies available at select shops and galleries
New Festival of the Skeletons T-shirts available for purchase
Event posters displayed throughout Bradenton and the Village
Live music filling the streets and courtyards all weekend
Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their best DÃa de los Muertos attire--paint your face, wear bright colors, and join the fun! The Village will be full of life and character, making it one of the most photographed and talked-about events in Bradenton every fall.
The Spirit of the Village Lives On
For more than two decades, the Village of the Arts has been home to the Festival of the Skeletons, a celebration that captures the heart of Bradenton's creative community. What started as a small neighborhood gathering has grown into one of the area's signature annual events that draws visitors from across Manatee County and beyond.
Every corner of the Village tells a story, all the way from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to expressive paintings and DÃa de los Muertos-inspired artwork, you'll find something meaningful in every shop. Many galleries will also host their own shrines and altars, honoring family, friends, and even beloved pets.
While the festival is vibrant and festive, it also holds a deeper meaning. DÃa de los Muertos is about remembering those who came before us and celebrating their lives with joy, not sorrow. The 21st Annual DÃa De Los Muertos Festival of the Skeletons embraces that tradition beautifully, combining art, food, and community in a way that feels distinctly Bradenton.
Free, Family-Friendly, and Full of Local Spirit
The Festival of the Skeletons 2025 is completely free to attend and family-friendly, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Families can stroll the streets together, listen to music, and enjoy the creative displays that make this event so special.
Plan Your Visit
The 21st Annual DÃa De Los Muertos Festival of the Skeletons 2025 will take place in Bradenton's Village of the Arts, located at 1227 12th Ave West, Bradenton.
📅 Friday, November 7 | 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
📅 Saturday, November 8 | 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Street parking is available throughout the neighborhood, with additional parking in the open lot on 13th Ave and 12th St.
Come experience the heart of Bradenton's art scene, where tradition meets creativity and remembrance meets celebration. Bring your friends, dress for the occasion, and join the Village of the Arts community for this unforgettable Festival of the Skeletons 2025.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
PALMETTO / ELLENTON
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
