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 seven events you don't want to miss! 

 

Día De Los Muertos Celebration at Palm Valley School

When: OCTOBER 28 | 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. 

Día De Los Muertos Celebration with an evening of performances, food, music, and more. Adults and kids aerial arts performances. Dance performances. Mariachi and folklorico.

 

​CATHEDRAL CITY DIA DE LOS MUERTOS CELEBRATION

When: OCTOBER 28 | 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Woman holding a candle in Day of the Dead makeup

Forest Lawn Memorial Park will be free and open to the public to honor those in commemoration of Día De Los Muertos as you honor those in remembrance. 

 

HOWL-O-WEEN DOG COSTUME CONTEST & 8TH ANNUAL DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL

When: OCTOBER 28 | 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. 

The Cathedral City Parks & Community Events Commission presents the inaugural Howl-O-Ween dog costume contest where prizes will be given out to winners. Right after, be sure to head over to their annual Day of The Dead festival as well, where attendees can enjoy organizational booths, live local entertainment, and much more.

 

Dia de los Muertos with Palm Springs Art Museum and the community

When: OCTOBER 29 | 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

A celebration with dance, music, art, storytelling, and the honoring of those who have passed away. Día de los Muertos is a tradition where families and communities gather, build altars, and create pathways to welcome home their loved ones while celebrating life.

 

Día De Los Muertos Celebration And Fundraiser 

When: NOVEMBER 4 | 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. 

This year the CV History Museum will be hosting another unforgettable night featuring live entertainment, delicious food, tequila, art, ofrendas by local artists, Silent Auction, dancing, and much more! You must be 21+ to attend.

 

10th ANNUAL RUN WITH LOS MUERTOS 5K & BLOCK PARTY

When: NOVEMBER 4 | 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

The 10th annual 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 and receive a free shirt for the race!
 

Want to discover more things happening this spooky season? Take a look at how you can Celebrate Halloween in Greater Palm Springs.