Día de Los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, is celebrated November 1-2, though the festivities may start a few days early and continue after. Día de Los Muertos originated in Mexico as a way to honor and remember family members and friends who have passed. Traditionally, people pay tribute to their ancestors by visiting cemeteries and decorating their graves with gifts. At home, families build altars called ofrendas, which are adorned with photos of departed loved ones, as well as their favorite drinks or foods. This joyous holiday is not only a way to remember those who are no longer here but also a reminder to celebrate life.
In Greater Palm Springs, there are many ways to honor and celebrate Día de Los Muertos. Here are some events you don't want to miss!
DAY OF THE DEAD AT CABOT'S PUEBLO MUSEUM
When: October 18, 2025 | 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Where: Cabot's Pueblo Museum
Cabot’s Pueblo Museum in Desert Hot Springs is hosting a meaningful and creative Day of the Dead Celebration in honor of loved ones and in celebration of life through community and culture. Take part in Dia De Los Muertos with festive activities like: making paper flowers, learning printmaking, decorating a sugar skull and more. Participate in the community altar by bringing a memento or creating one. This free family-friendly event invites everyone to take part in the vibrant traditions that make this holiday so special.
COACHELLA VALLEY DAYS OF LOS MUERTOS AT SUNNYLANDS
When: October 25–29, 2025
Where: Sunnylands Center & Gardens
Experience a vibrant multi-day celebration of Día de los Muertos at Sunnylands Center & Gardens in Rancho Mirage! The gardens will be beautifully decorated with decorative cut paper, shadow boxes, and altars throughout the event. Each day, visitors can explore the altars and shadow boxes, while special evening programming, arts & crafts, and family-friendly activities bring the celebration to life. Reservation are not required and parking/admission is free. Enjoy special evening programming on Friday, October 27, when the gardens will remain open until 9 p.m. Families can also participate in drop-in arts and crafts activities that evening. On Saturday, October 28, Desert Oasis Healthcare’s mobile health clinic will be on-site from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. offering free health screenings, consultations, and vaccines.
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS AT PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM
When: October 26, 2025 | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Where: Palm Springs Art Museum
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with the Palm Springs Art Museum and the community through a vibrant day of art, music, and remembrance. Enjoy drop-in workshops and activities like marigold making, wooden calavera mask decorating, face painting, and a festive photobooth. Contribute to a community Memory Tree or join High Desert artist John Flores for Corazon de Nopal, where you can paint and embellish your own ceramic heart inspired by the desert landscape to honor loved ones. Throughout the day, enjoy lively performances by local folklorico dance groups and music from Discos Rolas, creating a colorful celebration of life and memory.
RUN WITH LOS MUERTOS 5K & BLOCK PARTY
When: November 1, 2025 | 4 p.m.
Where: Old Town Coachella, 1515 6th Street Coachella, CA 92236
Run with Los Muertos 5K & Block Party is back this fall! Lace up your running shoes and paint your face for when you sprint to the finish line to honor passed loved ones. Looking to celebrate without running or walking the 5K? No worries! There will be a car show, live entertainment, an art walk, a vendor zone, a beer garden, and more to celebrate the Day of the Dead in the historic Old Town Coachella. Register now to participate in the 5K!
Día de Los Muertos Skate
When: November 1, 2025 | 2:30 - 4 p.m.
Where: Berger Foundation Ice Plex
Celebrate Día de Los Muertos on ice! Join Berger Foundation Iceplex for a special themed skate! Enjoy a lively atmosphere honoring this beloved tradition. Lace up your skates, bring your friends and family, and enjoy a fun-filled celebration!
CATHEDRAL CITY DIA DE LOS MUERTOS CELEBRATION
When: November 2, 2025 | 12 - 3 p.m.
Where: Forest Lawn Cathedral City
Desert Memorial Park will be free and open to the public to honor those in commemoration of Día De Los Muertos.
CELEBRATE DIA DE LOS MUERTOS WITH THE COACHELLA VALLEY HISTORY MUSEUM
When: November 7, 2025 | 5:30 - 10:00 p.m.
Where: Coachella Valley History Museum
This year, the Coachella Valley History Museum will be hosting another unforgettable night. This cherished 21+ event honors the memory of our loved ones and brings together art, culture, and community in a powerful and joyful way under the stars on our beautiful museum grounds. Last year’s event was a sold-out success with over 325 attendees! This year’s celebration features a Festive Dinner, Live Entertainment by David Macias sponsored by Hot Purple Energy, Tequila Tastings, Traditional Ofrendas (Altars), Art Exhibition, Mariachi, Face Painting, Silent & Live Auctions, Costume Contest, and more.
Want to discover more things happening this spooky season? Take a look at how you can Celebrate Halloween in Greater Palm Springs.
