Tucson’s Profound ‘All Souls Procession’
Since its start in the 90’s, the All Souls Procession has taken over a few blocks of Tucson’s downtown each November to celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed. This moving ritual weaves together memory, art, grief, performance, and community. It is the exact type of annual gathering that’s emblematic of what makes Tucson, Tucson.
In 1990 local artist Susan Johnson was grieving the death of her father and searching for a way to celebrate and memorialize him through art. She showcased a ceremonial performance piece with handful of locals, and in the following years fellow artists were inspired to continue and grow the procession to what it is today. Over 30 years later, the All Souls Procession attracts nearly 200,000 people to downtown Tucson to participate in the procession, or simply watch. Community members get dressed up, dance, make music, and share art, much of which is inspired by the Mexican tradition of Día de Los Muertos. The two mile procession ends with the burning of “the urn” — a massive urn filled with the “hopes, offerings and wishes of the public for those who have passed.” While All Souls is clearly inspired by the Day of the Dead, its creators say that it is not limited to any one cultural or religious tradition. Instead, it is simply about honoring death while affirming life.
What I especially love about the All Souls Procession is that it is entirely community led. Participants don’t have to register or get anyone to sign off on their performances or displays. Moving alters, handmade puppets, and entire bands are found amongst the crowds of face-painted calaveras.
What to know before attending
FREE AND OPEN: The procession is free to all participants, thanks to funding from donations and grants. If you are interested in donating, learn more here.
PROCESSION ROUTE: All Souls starts at Speedway and Grande, heads South down Grande to Congress, and participants turn left at Congress to access the urn just North of the MSA Annex. Be sure to check the website the day of to make sure the route hasn’t been adjusted.
ARRIVE EARLY: Parking in neighborhoods is very limited. Many attendees park downtown and use public transit or walk. There appear to be two drop-off/pick-up zones near the Mercado District, but things may or may not get crowded there early.
FACE PAINTING: There are three community sponsored face painting stations before the procession, but be sure to arrive early to get yours done. Or, you could get creative with friends and do it yourself!
There are many additional events to check out on the official website, but one that I think is particularly special is the Traditional Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda installation at the MSA Annex.
For those who are unable to attend in person (I myself am not ready to bring my baby with me) you can watch the live stream hosted by Visit Tucson.
Although I won’t be making it to All Souls this year, I’m looking forward to bringing my son along with me once he’s a little older. All Souls is a welcomed opportunity to walk the typically car-filled streets with your fellow Tucsonans and soak in the immense talent of so many of our peers. It’s also an event that nudges participants towards reflection and activates the full spectrum of emotions — from grief and joy, to awe and quiet contemplation. If you aren’t into big crowds I recommend sitting this one out, but otherwise, it’s a Tucson event that you have to see at least once.
