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Halloween is fast approaching. Soon Los Angeles will be covered in advertisements for crazy costume parties and more. But this time of year brings around another important holiday – Dia de los Muertos. Also known as Day of the Dead, the Mexican holiday has been a tradition throughout Central and South America since the Aztecs walked the earth. Today, it is celebrated in many regions of the United States, particularly in cities and areas with heavy hispanic populations. From wild parties to incredible parades, be sure not to miss out on one of Los Angeles’s most vibrant events.
For the heart of the day’s festivities, make sure to stick around Hollywood and Downtown L.A. on the Saturday before Halloween. From noon until midnight, exhibits, presentations, parades, and other activities take over the streets. Visit celebrity graves, such as those of Rudy Valetino and the Ramones, which are decorated for the occasion. Outdoor stages showcase live music along Santa Monica Boulevard. The day’s events are great for all ages.
The next day, Sunday, sees another equally entertaining festival. The Dia de los Muertos Art Festival takes place each year after the Dia de los Muertos Festival at the Downey Theatre, and includes a day of family-friendly events, such as film screenings, sculptures, dance performances, live music performances, and all the food you can eat. This free festival is also wonderful for kids, and adults of all ages.
If you find yourself in Burbank or the Pasadena area on the days leading up to Halloween, be sure to check out the Old Pasadena Day of the Dead Fiesta and Tour of Altars. Be there when the spirit of Dia de los Muertos comes alive to say hello! The day’s events also include Aztec fire dancers, Mariachi and marimba music performances, and spooky storytelling.
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