The free event, organised by the Old Town Business Association, takes place on Wood Street and Victoria Road from 1pm to 7pm, following the success of last year’s inaugural festival, which attracted more than 4,200 people.
Around 30% of visitors dressed up for the occasion last year, with elaborate sugar skull face paint, flower crowns and colourful costumes transforming Old Town into a celebration inspired by Mexico’s Día de los Muertos tradition.
Organisers are encouraging even more people to get involved this year, with live Mexican music, dance performances, street food and a parade of light among the highlights.
A traditional ofrenda, or remembrance altar, will be created outside The Kings on Wood Street, where visitors can place photographs of family members and friends who have died.
Last year’s altar featured more than 200 photographs, becoming one of the most moving parts of the festival. Live entertainment will include Mexican Dave, Mariachi Bravo, Afro-Peruvian music from Zambalando and performances by JHS Dance.
There will also be a wide selection of Mexican food to try, alongside other international street food vendors. As the afternoon draws towards its close, visitors will be invited to join a parade of light, with lanterns adding to the spectacle through the streets of Old Town.
Kris Talikowski, Chair of the Old Town Business Association, said:
“What stood out last year wasn’t just the number of people who came, but how wholeheartedly Swindon embraced the festival.
“The streets were full of music and colour, and more than 200 people left photographs of loved ones at the ofrenda. It was a really special atmosphere.
“We’re hoping to welcome around 5,000 people this year. What makes this event different is that it’s more than just a street festival. It’s an opportunity to experience another culture, celebrate life and remember the people who mean something to us.”
Día de los Muertos, meaning Day of the Dead, is one of Mexico’s most important cultural traditions, celebrated around 1st and 2nd November each year. Its origins stretch back to pre-Hispanic Indigenous traditions, which later became intertwined with Catholic commemorations of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Unlike Halloween, Day of the Dead is not primarily about fear or frightening costumes. It is a celebration of life and remembrance, rooted in the belief that the spirits of deceased loved ones can briefly return to visit their families. In Mexico, families create elaborate ofrendas decorated with photographs, candles, marigold flowers, food and personal possessions of those they are remembering.
The bright orange marigolds are traditionally believed to help guide spirits home, while candles light their way. Sugar skulls, known as calaveras de azúcar, are another recognisable symbol of the celebration. Often brightly decorated, they represent the acceptance of death as a natural part of life.
Although the tradition is deeply connected to grief and remembrance, the atmosphere is often joyful, with families coming together through music, food, storytelling and shared memories.
The Old Town festival aims to capture that combination of celebration and reflection, while introducing more people in Swindon to Mexican culture.
The event is free to attend, although voluntary donations are welcomed to help fund future community festivals.
More information is available at www.thisisoldtown.com.
