Día de los Muertos
Discover San Diego’s citywide Día de los Muertos festivities
San Diego's cross-border connections are on full and vibrant display during this annual Mexican tradition. The city's neighborhoods come alive with music, dancing, colorful altars, sugar skulls, and beautifully painted faces. Join in this celebration of the dearly departed in this episode of San Diego's "One Bright Idea" series.
Look for Lively Celebrations — No Bones About It
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.
Check back here in September for specific dates and details on Día de los Muertos commemorations all around San Diego County.
Discover San Diego’s citywide Día de los Muertos festivities
Day of the Dead Celebrations
Day of the Dead Celebrations
Sherman Heights Día de los Muertos
When: October 9 - November 2, 2025
Embrace Mexican culture during Sherman Heights' Dia de los Muertos with a traditional celebration, official altar blessing, live performances, food and more.
Oceanside Día de los Muertos Festival
When: October 26, 2025
Annual Dia de los Muertos in Downtown Oceanside will have altars, arts & crafts, por siempre car show, a chalk cemetery and more!
Barrio Logan Dia de los Muertos
When: October 27, 2025
Celebrate a vibrant and culturally rich Day of the Dead 2025, 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, 2025
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.
Old Town Día de los Muertos
When: November 1 - 2, 2025
It's the time of the year where we reunite the living and the dead. The tradition of Día de los Muertos continues in Old Town this year, with a Mercado del arte and Procesión to the Cemetery.
SeaWorld Día de los Muertos
When: November 1 - 2, 2025
It's the time of the year where we reunite the living and the dead. The tradition of Día de los Muertos continues in Old Town this year, with a Mercado del arte and Procesión to the Cemetery.
Encinitas Día de los Muertos
When: November 1, 2025
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.
*Please note, events are subject to change and cancellation. Please confirm the event information by visiting the event website.
Fall Fun and Excitement in San Diego
When autumn arrives, a crisp soothing breeze sweeps over San Diego complementing the region's warm temperatures and welcoming vibe.
Make San Diego your awesome autumn escape and activate smile mode with a variety of festivals, haunting Halloween celebrations, plenty of outdoor activities, and diverse cultural entertainment.
