Día de los Muertos (2026)
Share a Tribute to a Beloved Pet
As part of the Louisville Zoo’s Día de los Muertos celebration, guests are invited to honor pets who have passed away by contributing a remembrance to our community ofrenda. If you would like to participate, please complete the submission form below by October 18 to be considered for inclusion in this year’s display.
↓ Submit your tribute below ↓
November 1 & 2
FREE with Zoo admission or Louisville Zoo membership
The Louisville Zoo is proud to celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a traditional observance in Mexico and many other cultures that honors and remembers loved ones who have passed. It is a vibrant and joyful celebration of life, memory and connection.
As part of this year’s celebration, the Zoo will once again create special ofrendas (altars) honoring beloved animals who have passed away. One ofrenda will recognize Zoo animals that brought joy to guests, inspired our conservation mission and touched the hearts of staff. Another will provide an opportunity for guests to honor cherished pets and celebrate the special bond they shared.
Families traditionally decorate ofrendas with photographs, flowers and meaningful items that help tell the stories of those being remembered. Marigolds and monarch butterflies are also common symbols of the holiday, reflecting themes of remembrance, migration and the enduring connection between generations.
Share a Tribute to a Beloved Pet
Guests are invited to participate by contributing a remembrance of a pet who has passed away. The Beloved Pet Ofrenda offers a meaningful way to celebrate the animals who brought joy, comfort and companionship into our lives.
What You Can Contribute
Please note: Submitted items will not be returned. Please consider this carefully before participating.
- Printed photos of your pet (copies only, please do not submit originals)
- Drawings or paintings
- Written remembrances, poems or letters
- Decorated name cards with your pet’s name and a few words about them
- Paper marigolds or other symbolic decorations
- Small symbolic items, such as a favorite type of toy or species-related figurine
Creative Guidelines
- Contributions should be no larger than 8″ x 10″
- Use non-perishable materials such as paper, cardboard or fabric
- Do not include real food or other organic materials
- Keep submissions respectful, positive and celebratory in tone
- Label your contribution with your name (optional)
How to Participate
To help us plan for the Beloved Pet Ofrenda and communicate with participants, please complete the online submission form:
Beloved Pet Ofrenda Submission Form
Important Dates
- Submission form deadline: October 18
- Approved participant drop-off dates: October 24-25
- Drop-off location: Collection box at the Zoo receptionist desk, 1100 Trevilian Way
- Ofrenda display dates: November 1-2
Need Inspiration?
Consider sharing:
- A funny or touching memory of your pet
- What made them unique or special
- How they impacted your life or touched your heart
Join us as we celebrate the lives of beloved pets and Zoo animals through this meaningful tradition of remembrance, gratitude and connection.