Halloween festivities in Los Angeles may be wrapping up after the West Hollywood Carnaval parade this evening, October 31st, but Dia De Los Muertos (The Day of the Dead), has yet to be fully celebrated. People move to our city from all over, and it allows us to celebrate and experience cultures from all around the world right here in the heart of Los Angeles. Dia De Los Muertos is one example of how our city honors and celebrates all cultures and traditions – and they definitely celebrate it well!
One of the biggest and most well-known traditions for Dia De Los Muertos is the elaborate altars families put together for their ancestors. Throughout the city there are multiple places where you can see some of the best set ups to celebrate. One of the best places is in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles right next to City Hall in Grand Park. Check out the alters all week long!
The Hollywood Forever Cemetery is another place where beautiful altars are on display (fans of old Hollywood should definitely check it out. Many of the altars are for iconic names buried in the cemetery!). The main event was this last weekend, but you can still stop by over the next few days to see the altars before the last of them get taken down!
Day of the Dead Festivities in Los Angeles
Pasadena offers much more than just the Rose Bowl. They celebrate Dia De Los Muertos in the best way possible – a three day festival! Complete with salsa dancing, viewings of traditional and contemporary altars, and live music throughout the streets. For complete details on this event, check out the official website for Old Pasadena. Pasadena is just a short 30 minute drive from the Hollywood area. There’s even an underground/above ground Metro system that can take you there! Old Pasadena is loaded with great restaurants, entertainment, bars, and shopping.
Have a safe Halloween and a festive Dia De Los Muertos!
-By Lindsay
