Hollywood Forever Cemetery claims to host the largest Day of the Dead celebration in California, and we wouldn’t doubt it: The cemetery grounds are covered with altars, art exhibitions, dance rituals, musical performances, arts and crafts projects and food vendors (and crowds) aplenty. After a couple of years of being split into two sessions, the 2024 edition will return to an all-day event, albeit one with staggered admission times (10am–2pm, 2–6pm and 6–11pm).
Day of the Dead in Los Angeles is easily one of the city’s most vibrant holidays as far as local commemorations go. The celebration of the deceased isn’t about haunted spirits or prolonged mourning but instead offers a healthy perspective on the afterlife. Observers of the Mexican holiday (traditionally held after Halloween) visit loved ones’ gravestones, often as part of public gatherings. Typically you’d find cultural affairs around the city with dance rituals, musical performances and plenty of calaca (skeleton) costumes. Get a taste of the holiday with some of our favorite Day of the Dead events, as well as the tastiest Mexican food in town.
What is Day of the Dead?
Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday in which family and friends come together to remember loved ones who have passed away and to guide their journey into the afterlife. Loved ones visit graves and build altars (or ofrendas) and often decorate them with sugar skulls and marigolds, as well as the deceased’s favorite food, drinks and possessions.
When is Day of the Dead?
Day of the Dead begins November 1 and ends November 2, 2024, though many L.A. events take place a couple of days prior.
