Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is a holiday traditionally recognized in Latin America from November 1 to November 2, and sometimes through November 6, depending on the culture. It is a time dedicated to celebrating and honoring the lives of deceased loved ones. It is important to recognize that this is not a time of mourning, but rather a moment to remember the lives our loved ones lived. During this observance, family and friends gather to partake in the holiday traditions such as creating Calaveras or sugar skulls, gathering marigold flowers, and building ofrendas or altars with photos of the departed and foods they enjoyed during their physical life.
Of course, this celebration is not solely focused on the dead, it is also used as a time to give gifts and celebrate with the living as well. This beautiful cultural holiday is meant to be spent with the community and loved ones. We’ve collected incredible ways for you to learn more about this day and spend with loved ones around Los Angeles below!
1. 13th Annual El Velorio Dia De Los Muertos Cultural Celebration and Art Exhibit
One of Los Angeles County’s largest Day of the Dead event returns to Plaza De La Raza for the 13th Annual El Velorio Dia De Los Muertos Cultural Celebration and Art Exhibit. Founded in 2010, El Velorio celebrates the cultural spirit, heritage, and tradition of Dia De Los Muertos, which honors the memories of loved ones who have passed away. Folks can expect live music, DJs, an art exhibition, very special performances, and more! Get your tickets here.
🌼When: October 14, 2023, from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
📍Location: Plaza De La Raza, 3540 N. Mission Rd., Los Angeles, California.
2. Avenue 50 Studio: Honoring Our Ancestors Day of the Dead Exhibition
In honor of this special observance, Avenue 50 Studio is showcasing incredible artists who are honoring their ancestors and passed on loved ones. Learn more here!
🌼When: October 14, 2023, from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
📍Location: 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
3. Grand Park’s Día de los Muertos display
Los Angeles loves tradition, and Grand Park’s Dia de Los Muertos displays return for its 12th annual celebration. Join them as they honor culture with beautiful altars created by talented local artists paying homage to the people, places, and ideas that have shaped our lives. Angelenos are also welcome to contribute to the annual community altar — the 20th altar — which will honor the victims of gun violence in Monterey Park and those who perished in Maui’s wildfires. Come and be a part of this powerful tribute. Find more info here!
🌼When: October 21 — November 2, 2023
📍Location: Gloria Molina Grand Park Fountain Overlook and Performance Lawn, 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012
4. Los Muertos 5K
Come celebrate the Day of the Dead in a unique way with a special 5k run/walk that tours Olvera Street! Immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of Los Angeles as you race through the historic streets featuring music along the course, gorgeous finisher medals, and a post-race Day of the Dead celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply looking for a fun day out, this event is the perfect blend of excitement and cultural appreciation! Register here.
🌼When: October 28, 2023
📍Location: Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA
5. Self Help Graphics & Art
Self Help Graphics & Art is bringing their Barrio Mobile Art Studio (BMAS) to the Laguna Art Museum to teach folks screen printing in the newly redesigned STUDIO/Lab. Help them celebrate 50 years of Chicano/a/x and Latinx printmaking innovation and excellence in this hands-on silkscreen printing workshop, and continue SHG’s 50-year tradition of working with artists and communities to celebrate Day of the Dead. More information can be found here!
🌼When: October 28, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
📍Location: 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
6. Self Help Graphics’ 50th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration
Self Help Graphics’ 50th annual Día de los Muertos Exhibition and Celebration is set to take place soon. Although the official date has yet to be announced, past events have included an exhibition and altars, live entertainment from local DJs, a Muertos Market, and food vendors. This event is typically free to the public. Stay up to date with this upcoming event on their site here!
🌼When: TBA
📍Location: TBA
7. Dia y Noche de Los Muertos at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Hollywood Forever’s acclaimed Day of the Dead Celebration is back for its 24th installment on Saturday, October 28, 2023. This year, they proudly present “Máscaras de México – Vida y Muerte en La Máscara,” an immersive experience that pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and Latin America through the art and symbolism of masks. The event will be split into two separate ticketed experiences, the Daytime Event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the Nighttime Event from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. — providing guests with an opportunity to delve into the unique themes and traditions of Día de los Muertos. Get your tickets here!
🌼When: October 28, 2023
📍Location: 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
8. LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes
Join LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes for a celebration of life and death! Take a deep look into the historical significance of Day of the Dead traditions with live music, mesmerizing dance performances, and captivating art workshops. Grab the whole family and get ready to surround yourself with the vibrant colors, rich culture, and beautiful traditions that make this annual event truly unique. This event is free, find more info here!
🌼When: October 29, 2023 at 12:00 p.m.
📍Location: Between Linden Ave. and Shoreline Village Dr., Long Beach, CA
9. Dia de los Muertos Celebration at historic Olvera Street
For over 35 years, the historic Olvera Street has celebrated Dia de los Muertos. According to their official site, “The celebration has evolved to incorporate the pre-Columbian, Aztec, Mayan, and Catholic rituals surrounding death. Each night, a vibrant and colorful procession sets the stage for our ceremony.” From October 25 to November 2, 2023, you can participate in candlelight processions where Mayan blessings and cleansings will be offered; following each procession, free pan de Muerto (sweet bread) and champurrado (Mexican hot beverage) will be served!
🌼When: October 25 to November 2, 2023 at 12:00 p.m.
📍Location: Olvera Street
10. 5th Annual Dia de los Muertos Family Festival at the Catalina Museum
Join the Catalina Museum on Wednesday, November 1, for the grand celebration of our 5th Annual Dia de los Muertos Family Festival, a mesmerizing tribute to the vibrant Mexican tradition. Immerse yourself in kids’ art projects, savor the flavors of tequila tastings, explore a delectable array of local food vendors, and bask in the rhythms of live music and captivating cultural performances, including the enchanting Ballet Folklorico Quetzal. The festivities also include an exciting opportunity to win cash prizes in the Ofrenda/Altar and Art Contest. More information can be found here!
11. Long Beach’s 8th Annual Día de los Muertos Grand Parade
The City of Long Beach is hosting their 8th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival taking place on Saturday, November 4, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Expect a spectacular celebration and street extravaganza with breathtaking arts and crafts, dance, world-class music and entertainment. Get here!
🌼When: November 4, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
📍Location: Between Linden Ave. and Shoreline Village Dr., Long Beach, CA
12. Canoga Park’s 23rd Annual Día de los Muertos Festival
Canoga Park’s 23rd Annual Día de los Muertos Family Festival is set to take on November 5, 2023. Attendees can expect beautiful dance performances, music, vendors, an incredible classic car show, arts and crafts for the family, food, altars, and so much more. Get the full details here!
🌼When: November 5, 2023 at 12:00 p.m.
📍Location: Main Street Canoga Park
13. The Bowers Museum’s Day Of The Dead celebration
Embrace the spirit of the Day of the Dead at The Bowers Museum! Join them for an incredible festival filled with complimentary face painting, art projects, live performances, and so much more. Don’t miss out and get more info here!
🌼When: November 5, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
📍Location: 2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706