Local Events
Through November 1 Arroyo Grande Library: Community Ofrenda. Honor a loved one with a community ofrenda in honor of Día de los Muertos. Bring a picture of an ancestor, friend or hero. Staff is creating mini nichos (altars) to share and celebrate the lives of dear ones.
October 28 Cuesta College (San Luis Obispo): Dia de los Muertos. The celebration starts at the Harold J. Miossi Cultural and Performing Arts Center at 4 p.m. in the Arts Plaza, with a screening of the film Coco at 6 p.m. in the MainStage Theatre. Registration is encouraged but not required for this free, family-friendly event that celebrates Latinx heritage and traditions including ofrendas (altars) and craft activities. Co-sponsored by the Latina Leadership Network, Diversity Coalition SLO, and the Cuesta College Ethnic Studies Department.
October 30 Cal Poly Arts (San Luis Obispo): Somos Amigos. Mexican singer Sonia De Los Santos and folk duo The Okee Dokee Brothers promise an afternoon of fun for the whole family, beginning at 2 p.m. with Dia de los Muertos and Halloween activities in the lobby of the Performing Arts Center. Enjoy a highly interactive bilingual concert with the kids dancing and singing along in Spanish and English.
If You Want To Travel
October 7-November 4 SOMArts (San Francisco): To Love and Be Loved in Return. One of the most internationally diverse Day of the Dead celebrations in the United States, merging traditional altars with contemporary installations; a multigenerational gathering of remembrance featuring 17 artists addressing local, national, and international social justice issues while affirming the importance of arts and culture in shaping the world. Opening reception and exhibit are free to all ages.
October 29 Downey Theatre (Los Angeles): Downey Dia de los Muertos Art Festival. Everything you could ask for in a Day of the Dead celebration: children’s programs, a community altar, face painting, art gallery, live performances, and more. Special evening concert for this ninth annual event by Mariachi Herencia de México with special guest Lupita Infante.
October 29 de Young Museum (San Francisco): Dia de los Muertos, A celebration of music, dance, and culture with performances by Cuicacalli, a longstanding dance and music program and member of the 24th Street (Calle 24) Latino Cultural District that promotes acceptance and awareness, and actively teaches and collaborates with local artists, leaders, and audiences. The event is free in the de Young’s Wilsey Court.