Celebrate Día de los Muertos in San Diego

Fall in San Diego brings the distinctive and colorful traditions of Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. A multi-day commemoration of those who have passed on, Día de los Muertos originated in Mexico, and San Diego's strong cross-border connections mean the occasion is honored far and wide here.

Each year, in late October and early November, Día de los Muertos events around the county invite visitors to honor the deceased by creating ofrendas (offerings), decorating altars to the dead with photos and flowers. Día de los Muertos commemorations are also known for such signature sights as colorful Catrina makeup and the small sugar skulls called Calaveras; many of the local events also offer face-painting, music and more.

One of the biggest annual Día de los Muertos celebrations here takes place in San Diego's Old Town, a centerpiece of the region's Hispanic heritage; a candlelit procession is a highlight of the commemoration. Downtown Chula Vista in San Diego's South Bay and Downtown Oceanside in coastal North County likewise stage popular Day of the Dead events.

Event listings are updated as soon as details are available. Events are subject to change or cancellation, so please check with event organizers for the most up-to-date information. This guide to San Diego Día de los Muertos events is updated annually, so some listings may be out of date, but they still provide valuable insight into San Diego’s yearly offerings and are refreshed as new information becomes available.

Encinitas Día de los Muertos

When: October 25, 2026
This annual family-friendly "Day of the Dead" festival will include continuous performances by some of the best Latin talent in San Diego, plus art-making workshops, artist demonstrations, student exhibitions, live Mariachi and other musical performances, as well as food trucks, opportunity drawings, vendors and giveaways.

Oceanside Día de los Muertos Festival

When: October 25, 2026
Annual Dia de los Muertos in Downtown Oceanside will have altars, arts & crafts, por siempre car show, a chalk cemetery and more!

SeaWorld Día de los Muertos

When: October 31 - November 1, 2026
Experience the colorful traditions of Día de los Muertos at SeaWorld San Diego, where families come together to honor and remember loved ones. The park features striking Catrina statues and beautifully decorated ofrendas, creating a festive and meaningful atmosphere.

Barrio Logan Dia de los Muertos

When: November 1, 2026
Celebrate a vibrant and culturally rich Day of the Dead, themed Barrio Magico. Immerse yourself in colorful traditions, intriguing altar displays, Dia-inspired art, live performances, and savory ethnic food fare.

Chula Vista Third Avenue Village's Día de los Muertos

When: November 1, 2026
Stroll along Third Avenue and take in the ofrendas (offerings), tastes and music as we celebrate our inaugural Día de los Muertos Celebration in the heart of Chula Vista. 

Día de los Muertos at SDMA

When: November 1, 2026
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at The San Diego Museum of Art with a free community event featuring live performances, family-friendly art activities, a collaborative ofrenda and free Museum admission.

*Please note, events are subject to change and cancellation. Please confirm the event information by visiting the event website.