Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is a holiday traditionally recognized in Mexico and much of Latin America from November 1st to November 2nd, and sometimes through November 6th, 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 some incredible ways for you to learn more and celebrate Día de los Muertos in Los Angeles.
1. Día de los Muertos: Defining Our Legacies Ancestor to Ancestor
In honor of this special observance, the Avenue 50 Studio art gallery is showcasing incredible artists who are honoring their ancestors and passed-on loved ones. The presented artwork will be available for sale.
🌼 Dates: Oct. 5 – Nov. 3, 2024
📍 Location: 131 North Avenue 50, Highland Park, CA 90042
🌐 Website: Avenue 50 Studio
2. Downtown Día de Los Muertos at Gloria Molina Grand Park
Los Angeles loves tradition, and Grand Park’s Día de Los Muertos displays return for its 13th 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. Come and be a part of this powerful tribute.
🌼 Dates: Oct. 19 – Nov. 2, 2024
📍 Location: Downtown L.A. – Gloria Molina Grand Park Fountain Overlook and Performance Lawn, 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012
🌐 Website: Gloria Molina Grand Park
3. 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.
🌼 Date: Nov. 2, 2024 at 8 a.m.
📍 Location: Olvera Street 845 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
🌐 Website: Los Muertos 5k
4. Self Help Graphics’ 51st Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration
Self Help Graphics’ 51st annual Día de Los Muertos Exhibition and Celebration is always an unbelievable experience. Events include an exhibition and altars, live entertainment from local DJs, a Muertos Market, and food vendors. They’re also hosting Día de Los Muertos crafting workshops on Saturdays in October. This event is free to the public.
🌼 Date: Nov. 2, 2024
📍 Location: L.A. County Civic Center Park, 4801 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90022
🌐 Website: Self Help Graphics
5. Día de los Muertos Festival at Olvera Street
For over 35 years, the historic Olvera Street has celebrated Día de los Muertos. The celebration is unique for its inclusion of pre-Columbian, Aztec, Mayan, and Catholic rituals surrounding death. 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.
🌼 Dates: Oct. 25 – Nov. 2, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
📍 Location: Olvera Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
🌐 Website: Día de los Muertos Festival at Olvera Street
6. 5th Annual Día de los Muertos Family Festival at the Catalina Museum
Take a day trip out to Catalina Island for the grand celebration of the 6th 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. The festivities also include an exciting opportunity to win cash prizes in the Ofrenda/Altar and Art Contest.
🌼 Date: Nov. 1, 2024 from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
📍 Location: 217 Metropole Ave, Avalon, CA 90704
🌐 Website: Dia de los Muertos Family Festival at the Catalina Museum
7. Long Beach’s 8th Annual Día de los Muertos Grand Parade
The City of Long Beach is hosting its 9th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival this year. The free celebration includes a parade in Downtown Long Beach and an Arte and Ofrendas Festival at Rainbow Lagoon.
🌼 Date: Nov. 2, 2024. Parade starts at 11 a.m.
📍 Location: Between Linden Ave. and Shoreline Village Dr., Long Beach, CA
🌐 Website: City of Long Beach
8. Canoga Park’s 24th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival
Canoga Park’s annual Día de los Muertos Family Festival is back for its 24th year. 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.
🌼 Date: Nov. 3, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
📍 Location: Sherman Way between Topanga Cyn. Blvd. & Canoga Ave., Los Angeles, CA
🌐 Website: Main Street Canoga Park
9. Mexican Day of the Dead at the Bowers Museum
Embrace the spirit of the Day of the Dead at The Bowers Museum! Join them for an incredible free family festival filled with complimentary face painting, art projects, live performances, and treats.
🌼 Date: Nov. 3, 2024 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
📍 Location: 2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706
🌐 Website: Bowers Museum
Edited by Jamie Ferrell