More than 4,200 people gathered for Swindon's first Day of the Dead Festival.
The celebration saw the streets of Old Town transformed into a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage, remembrance and community.
Hundreds of the visitors arrived dressed in traditional skull make-up and elegant attire, joining an afternoon filled with colour, music, food and reflection.
A striking public ofrenda (altar) became the emotional heart of the event, with over 200 photos of loved ones placed in remembrance, a powerful tribute that captured the spirit of Día de los Muertos: celebrating life by remembering those who have passed.
The festival featured line-up of talented performers, including the exuberant Mariachi Wey, Afro-Peruvian rhythm group Zambo Lando and captivating dance performances from JHS Dance.
Guests also enjoyed live cacao grinding demonstrations from César, while co-hosts Oscar Saucedo, a Mexican resident of Swindon, and Evie Jackson guided the audience through the day’s programme with warmth and authenticity.
Visitors enjoyed food and drink from 10 stalls, representing flavours of Mexico and beyond, alongside creative activities such as a ‘design your own maraca’ station, which proved popular with families and children.
The atmosphere throughout the day was one of joy, reflection and respect, a genuine celebration of culture and community.
Rebeca Grepe, one of the traders, said: “It was incredible. I’ve only just started my business and didn’t expect the response we had, I sold out of tamales in under two hours! But more than that, it meant so much to share a piece of real Mexican tradition with people who were genuinely interested and respectful.
"The whole atmosphere felt joyful and authentic, just like Día de los Muertos should be.”
Kris Talikowski, Chair of the Old Town Business Association, said: “It was one of the most beautiful events we’ve ever held in Old Town.
"People came not just to enjoy the music and food, but to remember, to connect, and to share in something truly meaningful. We wanted this to be culturally authentic, and with the help of Oscar and others from the Mexican community, it really was.
"I think we’ve started something very special, and it’s clear from the feedback that people want to see it return next year.”
With visitors and residents alike calling for the festival to become an annual tradition, plans are already being discussed to bring it back even bigger and better in 2026, keeping Old Town firmly at the heart of Swindon’s growing cultural calendar.
(All pictures by https://www.othouse.co.uk)
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