The traditional Mexican holiday of Día de los Muertos is celebrated each year on and around All Souls Day of November 2nd. On that day, the legend says that loved ones 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 passed on never make it to their third death, and instead are remembered and celebrated!
Old Town A Must
For an authentic Dia de los Muertos celebration in San Diego, California, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town, where traditional altars, adorned with marigolds and sugar skulls, line the streets.
Given its close proximity to the Mexican border and large population of residents of Mexican descent, it’s no surprise then 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 culture experience by attending one of San Diego’s yearly Día de los Muertos celebrations.
Many of San Diego’s neighborhood’s come alive with marigolds, colorful decorated ofrendas, 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.
Few US cities celebrate Día de los Muertos quite like San Diego. On November 2nd, parties and other events can be found in multiple locations throughout the county, plus you’ll also find a range of events during the run-up to the holiday, usually starting around October 28th.
All the celebrations in San Diego are family-friendly with food, games, entertainment and more. As a longtime resident of San Diego, 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 San Diego on this day that you’ll have the opportunity to be part of this incredible cultural experience!