The traditional Mexican holiday of Día de los Muertos is celebrated annually on and around All Souls Day of November 2nd. On that day, the legend says that loved ones that have passed will return, for just a single night each year!
The tradition goes on to say that our ancestors die in three parts; once when they pass, once when their body is buried, and a third time when they are forgotten.
The Día de los Muertos celebrations, also known as the ‘Day of the Dead’ in English, are all about making sure that those who have passed on never make it to their third death, and instead are remembered and celebrated.
Building Art in Old Town San Diego
San Diego’s Connection to Día de los Muertos
Given its close proximity to Mexico and large population of residents of Mexican descent, it’s no surprise that the city of San Diego has a great deal of cultural crossover. It’s easy to take a day trip to Tijuana or spot Mexico from Point Loma’s Cabrillo National Monument or from the pier at Imperial Beach. It’s also easy to have an authentic Mexican cultural experience by attending one of San Diego’s yearly Día de los Muertos celebrations.
Many of San Diego’s neighborhoods come alive with marigold flowers, colorful decorated ofrendas (altars), patrons dawning la Catrina face paint, parades, live performances and so much more, all in remembrance of ancestors and loved ones that have passed on.
For me and my family it’s the vibrant colors, the smell of the flowers, and the energy that permeates through all the events. It’s a deep feeling of cultural connection I think you can only get by embracing an experience like the Day of the Dead.
Dia De Los Muertos Face Painting in Old Town
Family-Friendly Day of the Dead Celebrations
Few US cities celebrate Día de los Muertos quite like San Diego! The city’s diversity and the varied backgrounds of its residents invite both tourists and locals like myself to experience the events right in Southern California.
On November 2nd, events can be found in multiple locations throughout San Diego county, plus you’ll also find a range of things to do during the run-up to the holiday, usually starting as early as the middle of October, and sometimes earlier!
As someone that’s attended many of these events with my kids, I can assure you that the celebrations in San Diego are family-friendly with food, games, entertainment and more. As a longtime resident, I can say that my family very much looks forward to the Día de los Muertos celebrations each year.
I hope if you’re lucky enough to be in the area around this time that you’ll have the opportunity to be part of this incredible cultural experience!
Local Tip: The Best Día de los Muertos Celebration!
I’m about to dive into the details of the most popular Día de los Muertos celebrations in San Diego for 2025.
But if you’re short on time, know that the Old Town San Diego Día de los Muertos celebrations are my family’s pick for the best Day of the Dead festivities in San Diego!