Every fall, the rhythm of Williamsburg shifts. Cooler evenings, golden skies and a calendar filled with cultural celebrations. But few traditions feel as soulful, or as visually striking, as Día de los Muertos.
Often translated as Day of the Dead, this vibrant Mexican holiday goes far beyond face paint and sugar skulls. It’s a heartfelt tribute to ancestors, memory and the enduring bonds between generations. And while it shares the calendar with Halloween, its meaning is something entirely different: a celebration of life, remembrance and joy.
At ElNico, the rooftop restaurant and bar upstairs at The Penny Hotel, we invite you to mark this meaningful tradition with skyline views, bold Mexican flavors and a setting that’s both reflective and alive with energy
When Is Day of the Dead Celebrated?
Día de los Muertos is observed each year on November 1st and 2nd. These days hold their own significance:
- November 1st is Día de los Inocentes, honoring children and infants.
- November 2nd is Día de los Muertos, or All Souls’ Day, a time to welcome and remember departed adults.
Though deeply rooted in Mexican culture, the tradition has spread far beyond its origin. Across Latin America, the U.S. and cities like New York, communities gather to celebrate loved ones with color, food, and reflection.
At ElNico, the celebration spans both days, with curated rooftop dinners, glowing altars, and seasonal dishes that honor the occasion while capturing Williamsburg’s creative pulse. Whether you’re well-versed in the holiday or discovering it for the first time, it’s a chance to connect with something timeless and meaningful.
What to Expect at ElNico’s Day of the Dead Celebration
At ElNico, Día de los Muertos unfolds as a rooftop tribute that blends tradition with modern expression. Guests can expect a celebration to excite all their senses.
- Rooftop Ofrendas (Altars): ElNico’s community ofrenda is a breathtaking sight: marigolds, flickering candles, family photos, papel picado, and traditional offerings come together under the open sky. These altars are the heart of the holiday, welcoming spirits back to the world of the living and creating space for quiet remembrance amidst celebration.
- Modern Mexican Menu: Executive Chef Fernanda Serrano draws on her roots to craft a menu that blends memory and imagination. Expect comforting classics like tamales and mole, alongside creative takes on pan de muerto and seasonal small plates. It’s a soulful and thoughtful offering that captures the essence of the holiday.
- Cocktails & Mezcal: The bar’s seasonal cocktail lineup leans into smoky mezcal, golden marigolds, and bold, festive flavors. Past creations have included marigold spritzes, mezcal negronis, and agave-forward sippers designed to pair perfectly with rooftop views.
- Music, Performance & Atmosphere: From intimate mariachi sets to local DJs, ElNico’s Día de los Muertos strikes a beautiful balance between reverence and rhythm. Expect a space filled with movement, connection, and the quiet magic of candles and city lights. Subtle calavera-inspired face painting may be offered, honoring the symbolism without falling into costume.
Honoring the Tradition With Heart and Respect
For those less familiar with the holiday, Día de los Muertos can seem mysterious, but at its core, it’s a powerful celebration of life and memory. Born from a blend of Indigenous and Catholic traditions, it reflects a worldview where death is not an end but a continuation and where love lives on through ritual, storytelling, and gathering.
At ElNico, this respect is woven through every detail. Many team members, including Chef Serrano, bring their own lived experiences and family traditions to the celebration. This isn’t a theme night, it’s an invitation to participate in something deeply meaningful.
Whether you’re joining as a guest or observer, the celebration is shaped with care, authenticity, and cultural integrity, so everyone feels welcome while honoring the tradition appropriately.
Where to Stay, Eat & Celebrate in Williamsburg
One of the best parts of celebrating Día de los Muertos at ElNico? It all happens above The Penny Hotel, your boutique home base in Williamsburg. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or a fall weekend in Brooklyn, everything you need is right here.
- Stay at The Penny: Enjoy boutique rooms and city views just steps away from the rooftop celebration.
- Explore Williamsburg: Spend the day wandering vintage shops, galleries, and waterfront parks before heading upstairs to ElNico. Want to discover more activities in Brooklyn this winter and fall? Take a look at our very own Events Guide!
- Wake Up to Rooftop Brunch: The morning after the celebration, savor coffee and brunch with skyline views – yet another reason to linger in Brooklyn.
For travelers or locals planning a fall weekend, staying at The Penny makes the experience seamless. Explore our rooms and check out our seasonal offers for the perfect cultural getaway.
Planning Your Visit to ElNico This Fall
Ready to join the celebration? Here are a few tips:
Reserve Early: Day of the Dead events sell out quickly, so make sure to secure your table via ElNico’s reservation page. If you’re planning on staying the night you can also book a room just as easily.