Updated for 2024
Los Angeles is hosting many special events in honor of Día de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead. While customs may vary, traditionally family and friends focus on the memories of deceased loved ones.
Families may construct Día de Los Muertos altars to honor their loved ones and ancestors who have passed away. These altars can be adorned with bright flowers, photos, candles, and meaningful objects.
Celebrations are joyous and are a way for families to connect and remember through generations. Additionally, family and friends may paint their faces to resemble skulls (Calaveras) while their bodies are in a skeleton costume (Calacas).
Traditional and Modern Día de Los Muertos Events in Los Angeles
Self Help Graphics & Art Presents: Día de los Muertos Community Art Workshops
East Los Angeles Library
4837 E. 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90022
Self Help Graphics & Art presents Día de los Muertos Community Art Workshops on Saturdays in October. Workshops are scheduled for October 5th, 12th, and 26th from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, and on October 19th from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. During the workshops, participants will “create beautiful crafts to honor your ancestors.” Workshops will feature activities such as Papel Picado, crafting Paper Marigolds, Painting with Natural Dyes, and decorating a Pre-made Calaca Magnet. Space is limited; registration is encouraged. Workshops are open to all ages, and no prior experience is required. All materials will be provided.
Sugar Skulls
Los Angeles Central Library – Rotunda
630 W. 5th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Families are invited to visit the Central Library on Saturday, October 19th from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm for a special activity for Día de los Muertos. Visit the library to decorate your own sugar skull. All materials will be provided. Recommended for children ages 4 and older.
Día de Los Muertos Family Celebration and
Día de Los Muertos: Repujado Workshop (Tin Embossing) with Miriam Quezada
Los Angeles Central Library
630 W. 5th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Los Angeles Central Library is hosting a Día de Los Muertos Family Celebration on Saturday, November 2nd from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. This free event celebrates Day of the Dead with stories, music, and art, in Spanish and English. A number of activities are planned.
In addition, teens and adults are also invited to participate in a Repujado Workshop (Tin Embossing) with Miriam Quezada in the Octavia Lab. “Discover the ancient Mexican folk art of tin embossing or ‘repujado’ with artist and educator Miriam Quezada. This special workshop will cover techniques for engraving or ‘pushing out’ drawings on metal to create beautiful artwork.” Registration is required; RSVP [email protected] All details are available online.
Día de los Muertos at LA National Cemetery
950 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049
Los Angeles National Cemetery is hosting a special Día de los Muertos event on Saturday, November 2nd from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The event will “honor our fallen Service Members and your loved ones,” and include traditional music, altars, and more.
Día de Los Muertos Dance Party: Baila Baila with Isabel Brazon
Children’s Book World
10580 1/2 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Children’s Book World is hosting a Día de Los Muertos Mini Concert on Saturday, November 2nd at 10:30 am. “Get up and dance with this bilingual mini concert for the whole family!” This is an all-ages event.
Día de los Muertos: Decorating Sugar Skulls
Echo Park Branch Library
1410 W. Temple St., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Visit Echo Park Branch Library on Saturday, October 26th from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm to decorate sugar skulls in honor of Día de los Muertos. The activity is geared towards children 2 and older, but everyone is welcome to attend (while supplies last). Also, be sure to take a look at the library’s ofrenda.
Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos
Gloria Molina Grand Park
200 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Gloria Molina Grand Park is planning a Día de los Muertos celebration beginning on Saturday, October 19th and continuing through Saturday, November 2nd. The two-week event features an “exhibition of stunning altars created by local artists and community organizations.” This year’s theme is “Finding Peace Through Memories and Hope for the Future.” The Opening Celebration takes place on Saturday, October 19th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and will include live music and poetry readings, family workshops, face painting, on-site food trucks, and more. The Los Angeles Día de los Muertos Parade and Festival takes place on Sunday, October 20th from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm and will include live music, food, arts and crafts, and a spectacular parade. (The parade begins at 7:00 pm.) Closing Eve Festivities take place on Saturday, November 2nd from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm and will include an “outdoor film screening in collaboration with the Guadalajara Film Festival (GLAFF).” Details are available online.
Day of The Dead Paint and Sip Event
Grand Central Market
317 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Enjoy an “afternoon of creativity and relaxation” at the Día de los Muertos Paint and Sip Event happening on Sunday, October 27th from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The afternoon includes a guided painting session with instructor Morgan Palla and all painting materials. Additionally, while you’re painting, enjoy delicious food and refreshments from the many vendors at Grand Center Market. All ages are welcome. Tickets are available online.
Celebrate Día de Los Muertos at Maple Block Restaurant Culver City
3973 Sepulveda Blvd Culver City 90230
Friday, November 1st from 1 PM – 9 PM
From 1 PM to 9 PM, the lively event will feature mouthwatering Carne Asada Tacos, freshly grilled on-site, and an array of drinks, including Maple Block’s featured margaritas and beer garden set up with Big Noise Lager.
In true festive spirit, the celebration will offer more than just delicious food and drinks. DJ Geenee will spin upbeat tracks to keep the energy high that night, while Tattoo Lab will host a pop-up tattoo station for those looking to commemorate the day with a unique design with special pricing. Guests are encouraged to come in colorful attire to fully embrace the spirit of Dia de los Muertos.
Celebrate Day of the Dead (Día de Los Muertos)
Baldwin Hills Crenshaw
3650 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90008
Celebrate Day of the Dead (Día de Los Muertos) at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw on Friday, November 1st from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The fun includes special retailer promotions and arts and crafts from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm (while supplies last). And at 5:30 pm, settle in for a free screening of the Disney-Pixar film Coco. (The movie is rated PG.)
El Capitan Theatre: Coco
6838 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA, 90028
The El Capitan Theatre invites families to enjoy special screenings of the Disney/Pixar film Coco (rated PG) from Tuesday, September 17th through Sunday, September 22nd. In addition to the charming story of an “aspiring young musician named Miguel” who “embarks on an extraordinary journey to the magical land of his ancestors,” families will have the opportunity to see the Mariachi Divas and Ballet Folklórico De Los Ángeles live on stage as you enter the theatre. In addition, before your showtime, families will also see a Fiesta of Lights featuring music from the movie. Showtimes and ticket information are available online. (A Spanish-only screening takes place on Saturday, September 21st at 4:00 pm.)
25th Annual Día de Los Muertos
Hollywood Forever
6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
The 25th Annual Día de Los Muertos Festival is happening at Hollywood Forever Cemetery on Saturday, October 26th. This year’s theme is “Spirit Guides and Guardians/Tonas and Nahuales.” This is an all-day event, with gates opening at 10:00 am and ending at midnight when all attendees must exit the area. This year’s celebration features a children’s plaza, cultural performers, arts and crafts vendors, art exhibitions, traditional dance performances, dozens of spectacular altars, food vendors, and more. A ceremonial procession takes place at 1:00 pm. Check the website for all the details as well as information about tickets.
Día de los Muertos with Lil’ Libros Huesos Book Reading, Signing, and Family Workshop and
Family Matinee: The Book of Life
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
The Academy Museum is celebrating Día de los Muertos with several special events. On Saturday, November 2nd there is an 11:00 am Family Matinee screening of The Book of Life. The movie is an “animated musical set in a Mexican town during Día de los Muertos,” and features the voices of Diego Luna, Channing Tatum, and Zoe Saldana.
Lil’ Libros illustrator Luis San Vicente will be reading and signing his newest children’s book, Huesos on Saturday, November 2nd from 12:45 pm to 1:15 pm. While introducing children to the significance of Day of the Dead, “children will learn about the special bond between humans and their pets, promoting empathy and compassion in a light-hearted way while also highlighting the roles pets play in our lives.” And from 1:15 pm to 3:15 pm, families are invited to participate in a Día de los Muertos Workshop in which they will create their own Huesos skeleton puppet and a scene to go with it. Tickets are available online. (Attending the reading and workshop are free. A $20 fee includes a signed book as well as attending the reading and workshop.)
Drop-In Tours: Exploring Identity and Día de los Muertos
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is hosting Drop-In Tours: Exploring Identity and Día de los Muertos on Friday, November 1st and Saturday, November 2nd from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. “Join museum educators as they highlight the people-focused documentary style of the late Lourdes Portillo, a remarkable documentarian, visual artist, journalist, and activist.” The event is included in admission, and is a drop-in-style event, meaning attendees may stay for as long as you like. Tickets are available online.
Día de Los Muertos Mini-Ofrenda Crafting
Edendale Branch Library
2011 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Visit Edendale Branch Library on Saturday, November 2nd at 11:00 am for Día de Los Muertos Mini-Ofrenda Crafting. Artist and educator Roxana Rivera will guide participants in “crafting mini-ofrendas for people who have meant something to us and are no longer with us, whether it’s your grandfather who fished at the pier mostly catching sardines or your best friend who loved to barbeque or even a well-known athlete, musician or public figure who influenced you in a positive way.” Participants may also bring a photo, symbol, or other visual that represents the person you are honoring and/or an item representing something the loved. This is a bilingual program (English and Spanish) and recommended for teens and adults.
Los Muertos 5K 2024
Olvera Street
845 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA
Everyone is invited to participate in a special 5K run/walk celebrating Day of the Dead on Saturday, November 2nd beginning at 8:00 am. This family-friendly event includes music along the course, finisher medals, and a post-race Día de los Muertos celebration. Registration information is available online.
Día de Los Muertos Celebration
Westfield Culver City
6000 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, CA
Westfield Culver City invites families to its Día de Los Muertos Celebration happening on Saturday, November 2nd from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. A number of activities are planned including live music, crafts for kids, face painting, and more. RSVP online for this free event.
51st Annual Día de Los Muertos Celebration
East L.A. County Civic Center Park
4801 E. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90022
Self Help Graphics presents the 51st Annual Día de Los Muertos Celebration happening on Saturday, November 2nd from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The free, all-ages event includes live performances, altars, an artisan “Muertos Market,” food vendors, and more.
Additionally, an all-ages Día de Los Muertos Procession is planned, with a meet-up scheduled for 2:00 pm. “This year’s procession will be led on the Metro L Line, from Mariachi Plaza to East LA Civic Center, where we’ll move collectively to arrive to our Celebration destination! Participants are encouraged to dress festively and express yourself in your favorite Día de los Muertos fashion! The procession will feature local artists along the train route, sharing poetry, music and palabra!” Free tickets and details are available online.
Loco en su Coco: Una celebration del Día de los Muertos
Alma Reaves Woods – Watts Branch Library
10205 Compton Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90002
The Alma Reaves Woods – Watts Branch Library is holding a special Day of the Day event on Tuesday, October 29th at 3:00 pm. “Experience the rich folklore of Día De Los Muertos with music, puppetry, storytelling, and magic with special guest Arty Loon.”
Día de los Muertos with Dudamel
Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Celebrate Day of the Dead with “vibrant Afro-Mexican and Brazilian music,” and Gustavo Dudamel conducting the LA Philharmonic. Performances are scheduled for Friday, November 1st at 8:00 pm, Saturday, November 2nd at 8:00 pm, and Sunday, November 3rd at 2:00 pm. Details and tickets are available online.
Muertitos Portraits with LACMA
A C Bilbrew Library
150 E. El Segundo Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90061
Learn about Day of the Dead at A C Bilbrew Library on Saturday, November 2nd from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. LACMA educators will share ancestral history related to the holiday and will help participants “create a whimsical Calavera portrait using airdry clay and decorative objects.” Recommended for children 5 and older. Advance registration is required as seating is limited.
Día de Los Muertos Family Day
LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes
501 N. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is hosting Día de Los Muertos Family Day on Sunday, October 27th at 12:00 pm. “Watch performances that pay homage to the dead through music and dance.” Food and beverages will be available for purchase. This is a free event.
Día de los Muertos Festival on Olvera Street
El Pueblo Historical Monument
125 Paseo de la Plaza, Los Angeles, CA
A nine-day Día de los Muertos Celebration will be held on Olvera Street, beginning on Friday, October 25th and continuing through Saturday, November 2nd. The festivities include a nightly procession, community altars on display, music, and more. Face painting will be offered on Saturday, October 26th and Sunday, October 27th as well as Friday, November 1st and Saturday, November 2nd. Check the website for all the details.
Día de Los Muertos Festival de Otono
Culebra Park
240 S. Avenue 57, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Avenue 50 Studio presents Día de Los Muertos Festival de Otono on Saturday, November 2nd from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The free community event will feature live musical and dance performances, arts and crafts, a community altar, face painting, food vendors, and more.
24th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival
Main Street Canoga Park
Sherman Way Blvd. (between Topanga Cyn. Blvd. & Canoga Ave.), Canoga Park, CA
Main Street Canoga Park’s 24th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival is happening on Sunday, November 3rd from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Families will enjoy dance performances – including Aztec Dancers as part of the Opening Ceremony, Altars/Ofrendas, art exhibits and workshops, a classic car show, chalk art, live musical performances, a Family Zone, and more. Additionally, attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their “most festive and creative attire to celebrate Día de los Muertos (please no Halloween costumes)” for the La Catrina contest.
Sugar Skulls: Día de los Muertos Craft for Tweens & Teens
Sylmar Branch Library
14561 Polk St., Sylmar, CA 91342
Tweens and teens are invited to visit the Sylmar Branch Library on Monday, October 21st for the chance to make Sugar Skulls. Celebrate Día de los Muertos by creating Calaveras (sugar skulls)! Maximum 50 participants. The event is geared for ages 10 and over.
Día de Los Muertos at PetSpace
Wallis Annenberg PetSpace
12005 Bluff Creek Dr., Playa Vista, CA 90094
Family, friends, and furry companions are all invited to attend the Día de Los Muertos event happening at Wallis Annenberg PetSpace on Saturday, November 2nd from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The free event is a special way to “honor the pets who have touched our lives.” Events include a Pet Altar (bring a favorite photo to add to the community ofrenda, with supplies available on-site to help you create a special tribute), arts and crafts, music, face painting, and more. Admission and parking are free.
Día de los Muertos: Calavera/Sugar Skull Craft
Studio City Branch Library
12511 Moorpark St., Studio City, CA 91604
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at the Studio City Branch Library on Tuesday, October 22nd from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Participants will decorate Calaveras (sugar skulls). Materials will be provided, for a maximum of 30 participants. The event is geared for ages 10 and over, but all ages are invited. RSVP by emailing [email protected]
Sugar Skulls for Teens
Panorama City Branch Library
14345 Roscoe Blvd., Panorama City, CA 91402
“Decorate sugar skulls to take home to celebrate Dia de los Muertos” at the Panorama City Branch Library on Wednesday, October 23rd from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Materials will be provided. The event is intended for teens, but all ages are welcome.
Plaza de la Raza’s Annual Día de Los Muertos Celebration
3540 N. Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA 90031
Plaza de la Raza’s Annual Día de Los Muertos Celebration is happening on Friday, November 1st from 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm. The free family event features exhibitions and ofrendas by local artists, music and dance performances, local vendors, hands-on workshops, and more. Plus, everyone is invited to contribute photos or items of loved ones to add to the community altar.
Sugar Skull Pot Painting for Día de los Muertos
Encino – Tarzana Branch Library
18231 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana, CA 91356
“Paint a pot in the sugar skull style of Día de los Muertos” at the Encino – Tarzana Branch Library on Saturday, September 28th at 4:00 pm. One terra cotta pot will be provided per person, while supplies last. (For ages 11 and older.)
Día de los Muertos Celebration
Strathearn Historical Park
137 Strathearn Place, Simi Valley, CA
The Simi Valley Historical Society presents a Día de los Muertos Celebration on Sunday, October 27th. The festivities include musical and dance performances, food vendors, arts and crafts for kids, altars, and more. “Come in costume or get your face painted at the festival.” Details are available online. ($10 for adults; $5 for children ages 5-12)
2nd Annual Día de Los Muertos Festival Block Party
5640 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016
Councilwoman Heather Hutt of CD 10 presents the 2nd Annual Día de Los Muertos Festival Block Party on Saturday, November 2nd from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The free community event features carnival rides, a community altar, on-site food trucks, live musical and dance performances, hands-on workshops, and more.
Sugar Skulls
Junipero Serra Branch Library
4607 S. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90037
Visit Junipero Serra Branch Library on Thursday, October 24th from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm to make Sugar Skulls in honor of Día de los Muertos. Participants will use a confection molded from sugar paste to create these special items that mark the sweetness of life.
Día de los Muertos Celebration
Fowler Museum at UCLA
308 Charles E. Young Dr. North, Los Angeles, CA 90024
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at the Fowler Museum on Sunday, November 3rd from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Artist Maria Elena Cruz will be teaching participants how to create mini ofrendas (shrines/offerings) and ornamental sugar skull piñatas. Additionally, enjoy music, pastries, and the closing of the exhibition Descanse En Paz: Memorial Paintings from 19th-Century Mexico. RSVP online for this free event.
18th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival
24th and Hoover Streets, Los Angeles, CA
24th Street Theatre is hosting its annual Día de los Muertos Festival on Saturday, November 2nd from 6 pm to 10 pm. The Festival will includes live musical and dance performances (on an outdoor stage), face painting, altars, a Ferris wheel, artisan and food booths, and more.
Día de los Muertos in Riverside
Día de los Muertos – Castle Dark
Castle Park
3500 Polk St., Riverside, CA 92505
Castle Park is celebrating Día de los Muertos on Saturdays and Sundays, starting on Saturday, September 21st and continuing through Sunday, November 3rd. This daytime celebration features live music, festive decor, dance parties, trick-or-treating, performances, and more.
Riverside Day of the Dead
Market Street (between University Ave. & 14th St.), Downtown Riverside , CA
The Riverside Day of the Dead Celebration is a two-day event happening on Saturday, November 2nd (1 pm to 10 pm) and Sunday, November 3rd (11 am to 7 pm). The special event will feature musical and dance performances, classic cars, altars, vendors, food, and much more.
Día de los Muertos in Downey
Downey Día de los Muertos Art Festival
8435 Firestone Blvd., Downey, CA 90241
The Downey Día de los Muertos Art Festival is happening on Sunday, October 27th from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. The Festival features a chalk walk, face painting, altars, arts and crafts, performances, food, and more.
Día de los Muertos in La Mirada
Songs and Stories of Día de los Muertos with Dr. Gloria Arjona
La Mirada Library
13800 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at La Mirada Library on Saturday, October 19th from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. This all-ages event combines “music, visuals, and storytelling—including traditional songs in Spanish and indigenous languages,” to celebrate Día de los Muertos.
Día de Los Muertos on Catalina Island
First Fridays At the Museum: Día de los Muertos Family Festival
Catalina Museum for Art & History
217 Metropole Ave., Avalon, CA 90704
Take a boat ride over to Catalina for Catalina Museum for Art & History’s 6th Annual Día de los Muertos Family Festival happening on Friday, November 1st from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The special event features live music and performances, a children’s art project, local food vendors, and more. Additionally, attendees are invited to submit their artwork for consideration in the Día de Muertos Family Festival Ofrenda/Altar & Art Contest. Register online for this free event.
Día de los Muertos in Bellflower
Día de los Muertos at SteelCraft Bellflower
16500 Bellflower Blvd., Bellflower, CA 90706
SteelCraft Bellflower is celebrating Día de los Muertos on Saturday, November 2nd from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This free event will include a pop-up market, DJ, face painting, live musical performances, sugar skull decorating, and more. This is an all-ages event. Details are available online.
Día de los Muertos in Glendale
2024 Glendale Día de los Muertos
Glendale Central Library
222 E. Harvard St., Glendale, CA 91205
Glendale Central Library is hosting a Día de los Muertos event on Saturday, November 2nd from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The celebration will include live musical and dance performances, face painting, and more. Details are available online.
Día de los Muertos at Forest Lawn
4 Locations
Glendale: 1712 S. Glendale Ave., Glendale, CA 91205
Covina Hills: 21300 Via Verde Drive, Covina, CA 91724
Cypress: 4471 Lincoln Ave., Cypress, CA 90630
Cathedral City: 69855 East Ramon Road, Cathedral City, CA 92234
Forest Lawn is hosting its annual Día de los Muertos Celebration at four of its locations. The festivities at this free, family-friendly event include altars, musical and dance performances, and more. Note: This event takes place on Sunday, October 27th from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the Covina Hills, Cypress, and Glendale locations. The Cathedral City location hosts its event on Saturday, November 2nd from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
Día de los Muertos in Orange County
Mexican Day of the Dead Festival and
Songs and Stories of Día de los Muertos with Dr. Gloria Arjona
Bowers Museum
2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA 92706
Bowers Museum invites families to its free Mexican Day of the Dead Festival happening on Sunday, November 3rd from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The festivities include live musical and dance performances, art-making opportunities, face painting, and more. Families are encouraged to “bring a photo to be placed on our Ofrendas (memorial altars) honoring loved ones and that special pet we lost too soon.”
Also on Sunday from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, Dr. Gloria Arjona will be presenting a free program which takes a look at “the diverse influences behind Día de los Muertos, inviting audiences of all ages to engage with its meaningful traditions.” Dr. Arjona will explore the multicultural roots of Día de los Muertos, “connecting it to both Indigenous Mexican traditions and the European Dance of the Dead.” This is a free onsite event and no RSVP is required.
Día de los Muertos 2024
Heritage Museum of Orange County
3101 W. Harvard St., Santa Ana, CA 92704
The Heritage Museum of Orange County is celebrating Día de los Muertos on Sunday, October 27th from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Previous celebrations have featured live performances, altars, food, and more. Check the website for more information as it becomes available.
Día de los Muertos Festival
Muckenthaler Cultural Center
1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton, CA 92833
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at The Muckenthaler on Sunday, October 27th from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. This free event features activities for the whole family including arts and crafts, live music, local artisans, and more.
Anaheim Town Square Kids Fun Zone 2.0: Día de los Muertos
Anaheim Town Square
2180 E. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Anaheim Town Square Kids Fun Zone on Saturday, October 12th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Enjoy story telling, face painting, arts and crafts, traditional dances, and more at this free event.
Día de Los Muertos Celebration
Anaheim Cemetery
1400 E. Sycamore St., Anaheim, CA 92805
Anaheim Cemetery will be hosting a Día de Los Muertos Celebration on Saturday, November 2nd. The special event will include Mariachi performances, Ballet Folklorico dancing, and more. “While supplies last, guests will receive free small bouquets of marigolds for the decoration of gravesites or home ofrendas, free pan de muertos, and children will enjoy the free craft tables and facepainting!” (Check the website. Time was still to be determined.)
Día de Los Muertos Celebration
MainPlace
2800 N. Main St., Santa Ana, CA
MainPlace in Santa Ana invites families to its Día de Los Muertos Celebration happening on Saturday, October 26th from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. This special community event will feature cultural games, storytelling, live musical and dance performances, face painting, sugar skull decorating, and more. Check the website for a schedule of the day’s events. (All crafts and giveaways are while supplies last.)
Día de los Muertos
Pretend City Children’s Museum
29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92618
Pretend City Children’s Museum is celebrating Día de los Muertos on Saturday, November 2nd. Activities include a special story time (at 11:00 am and 2:30 pm) as well as a Sugar Skull Table where children will have the chance to decorate their own sugar skulls. (The Sugar Skull Table is available all day.) All activities are included in general admission. Tickets are available online.
Día de los Muertos 2024
UC Irvine – Irvine Barclay Theatre
4242 Campus Dr., Irvine, CA 92612
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at UC Irvine on Monday, November 4th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. This special event will feature traditional music and dance performances, colorful altars, delicious food, and more.
Día de los Muertos in San Gabriel
Día de Los Muertos Celebration
Mission Playhouse Plaza
320 S. Mission Dr., San Gabriel, CA
Celebrate Día de Los Muertos in San Gabriel on Friday, November 1st from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Enjoy live performances, refreshments (available for purchase), a community altar, and more!
Día de los Muertos in Ontario
Día de Los Muertos Gallery Reception
Ontario Museum of History & Art
225 S. Euclid Ave., Ontario, CA 91762
Ontario Museum of History & Art invites the community to a “gallery installation and related activities of Día de Los Muertos” on Friday, November 1st from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. “The Museum invites you to experience artists’ exploration of their connections with the holiday and its history. Artists will present a multicultural view of life and death through various media, including paintings, sculptures, video, mixed media, photography, and altar installations.” The event will also include live entertainment and light refreshments.
Día de los Muertos in Long Beach
2024 Día de los Muertos Festival
Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)
628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802
The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) invites families to its annual Día de los Muertos Festival happening on Sunday, October 27th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. This year’s theme is “Journey of our Ancestors, inspired by the breathtaking return of the Monarch Butterflies to Mexico each year.” Check the website for more details as they become available.
9th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration
Parade Begins at Pine Ave. & E. Third St., Long Beach, CA
The City of Long Beach is hosting its 9th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration on Saturday, November 2nd and Sunday, November 3rd. The fun includes a festive parade (on Saturday from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm), as well as the Arte y Ofrendas Festival which will include altars, children’s activities, live performances, food, and more. Details, including ticket information, are available online.
Día de los Muertos in San Pedro
San Pedro’s 12th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival
6th St., Downtown San Pedro, CA
San Pedro’s 12th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival is happening on Saturday, October 26th from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This special event includes live entertainment, artisan craft vendors, on-site food trucks, altar displays, Catrina costume contest, and more.
Día de Los Muertos in Los Alamitos
Día de los Muertos
St. Isidore Historical Plaza
10961 Reagan St., Los Alamitos, CA
A Día de los Muertos celebration is happening at St. Isidore Historical Plaza on Saturday, November 2nd from 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The celebration includes live performances, altars, food, costume contest, and more.
Día de los Muertos Celebration
Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum
18127 S. Alameda St., Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220
Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum is hosting its Día de los Muertos Celebration on Saturday, November 2nd from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The event features live musical and dance performances, food, vendors, and more. Additionally, the community is welcome to create and showcase your own ofrenda at the event. Details are available online.
Día de los Muertos in Santa Monica
Día de los Muertos Celebration
Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at the Santa Monica Pier on Friday, November 1st (from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm) and Saturday, November 2nd (from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm). At this special two-day public art installation, families can “contribute to the community altar as well as view the altars made by local artists, Sylvia Sanchez and Yolanda Medina.” Additional festivities include live musical and dance performances, food, face painting, children’s activities, and more. Check the website for all the details.
Día de Los Muertos at Heal the Bay Aquarium
1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Heal the Bay Aquarium is celebrating Día de Los Muertos from Friday, November 1st through Sunday, November 3rd (from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm each day). Families are invited to visit the Aquarium and add a memento representing a loved one to the community Ofrenda. Other activities also include face painting, crafts, and more. (Admission: $12 for adults and teens 13+; $10 for students and seniors 65+; $5 for children 4-12; free for children 3 and younger)
Celebrate Día de los Muertos
Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA
Downtown Santa Monica is celebrating Día de los Muertos on Saturday, October 26th from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Enjoy live musical and dance performances, arts and crafts, community altars, and “La Catrina public art sculptures, up to 14 feet tall, by Los Angeles-based artist Ricardo Soltero.”
Día de los Muertos in Oxnard
Día de los Muertos
Oxnard Performing Arts Center (OPAC)
800 Hobson Way, Oxnard, CA
Visit the Oxnard Performing Arts Center on Saturday, November 2nd from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm for a special Día de los Muertos community celebration. This free event includes altars, musical and dance performances, artisan vendors, guest speakers, food, arts and crafts for children, face painting, and more.
Panteón Fest x Piriripau – Celebrating Día de los Muertos
The Heritage Square in Downtown Oxnard
715 S. A Street, Oxnard, CA 93030
Take a drive to Oxnard to participate in the Panteón Fest – Celebrating Día de los Muertos event happening on Saturday, October 12th from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A number of activities are planned including a procession, musical and dance performances, face painting, altars, craft vendors, and more. Tickets are available online. (Admission is $15; children 12 and younger are free.)
Día de los Muertos in Pasadena
Día de los Muertos
Villa Parke Community Center
363 E. Villa St., Pasadena, CA
Celebrate Día de Los Muertos in Pasadena on Friday, November 1st from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Pasadena’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department’s event will “commemorate the centuries-old holiday with dance performances; arts and crafts; food available for purchase; and ‘ofrendas,’ altars honoring the lives of the deceased.” This is a free event.
Día de los Muertos
Kidspace Children’s Museum
480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103
Kidspace Children’s Museum is celebrating Día de los Muertos from Friday, November 1st through Sunday, November 3rd. “The program includes music, dance, art, and a community ofrenda where families can share memories of people and pets who have enriched their lives.” In addition, families will meet a “fantastical alebrije puppet created by Kidspace artist-in-residence Ricky Chavez. Make a puppet of your own in the Imagination Workshop. Create a postcard in memory of a loved one and add it to the ofrenda or take it home.” All Día de los Muertos activities are included in general admission. Details and ticket information are available online.
Día de los Muertos in Boyle Heights
Día de Los Muertos Community Block Party
Mariachi Plaza & 1st Street, Boyle Heights, CA
1st Street Business Association and Caminarte present Día de Los Muertos Community Block Party happening on Friday, November 1st from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The free community event features a kids’ art exhibition, community resource booth, Mariachi performances, face painting, live chalk art, a marketplace, community altar and more.
Día de los Muertos in El Monte
Día de los Muertos on Main Street
Downtown El Monte, CA
The City of El Monte is celebrating Día de los Muertos on Main Street on Saturday, October 19th from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The fun includes face painting, vendors, children’s workshops, live musical and dance performances, food, raffles, and more.
Día de los Muertos in Covina
Día de los Muertos & Mariachi Night
Ikea Covina
848 Barranca St., Covina, CA 91723
Ikea Covina is hosting Día de los Muertos & Mariachi Night on Friday, November 1st from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The event will include special menu items available in the Swedish Restaurant, an Ofrenda Workshop, Día de los Muertos face masks for kids, a live Mariachi performance, and Loteria Ikea-style with prizes.A schedule is available online.
Día de los Muertos in Costa Mesa
Lila Downs Día de los Muertos
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is hosting Lila Downs Día de los Muertos performance on Sunday, October 13th at 7:00 pm. “Lila brings her unique interpretation of traditional Mexican and Mesoamerican music, deeply personal renditions of classic rancheras, as well as her own original songs to convey the concept of Día de los Muertos.” Audience members are encouraged to come dressed in Día de los Muertos costumes and make-up, and “bring remembrances of their loved ones to share in the celebration, and to become fully immersed in an evening filled with emotions of love, loss, reconnection, and joy.” Tickets are available online.
Día de los Muertos in Redlands
Día de los Muertos Festival
Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Patch
32335 Live Oak Canyon Road, Redlands, CA 92373
Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Patch is hosting its first ever Día de los Muertos Festival on Friday, November 1st and Saturday, November 2nd. Described as the “largest pumpkin patch in Southern California,” the Festival will feature lots of Day of the Dead fun. ($29 wristband includes admission and rides) Check the website for details.
Create Sugar Skulls At Home
If schedules prohibit you and your family from enjoying one of these celebrations around town, or if you’re looking for a fun way to get your kids involved in Día del los Muertos at home, try making sugar skulls.
It’s a simple process that only requires a few ingredients. Best of all, it can be adapted so you can make enough just for your family or a large batch to share with your child’s class, as Yvonne did.
Take a look at the video and step-by-step instructions below or see Yvonne’s post about how to make sugar skulls.
Wendy Kennar is a mother, writer, and former teacher who has lived her entire life in the same Los Angeles zip code. You can read more from Wendy at her website WendyKennar.com where she writes about books, boys, and bodies (living with an invisible disability).
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