There’s something special about the way Dia de los Muertos honors those who’ve passed – not with sadness, but with color, music, and celebration. For the 12th year, Mira Costa College’s San Elijo Campus is hosting its annual Dia de los Muertos festival, and it’s grown into one of North County’s most vibrant community gatherings.

The best part? It’s completely free and welcomes everyone, whether you’re deeply connected to the tradition or just curious to experience it.

What to Expect

This isn’t a passive event where you just walk around and observe. You’ll find yourself pulled into the experience – decorating sugar skulls, making tissue paper flowers, watching Ballet Folklórico dancers move in brilliant traditional costumes, and hearing Mariachi bands fill the air with that unmistakable sound.

Aztec dancers bring an ancient energy to the afternoon, while the Callejeros de Encinitas Car Club shows off their lowriders, adding that distinctly Southern California flavor to the celebration.

The Community Ofrenda is the heart of it all. This remembrance altar invites everyone to participate by bringing a photograph or small memento of someone they’ve lost. It’s a beautiful way to honor memory collectively, and it reminds us that grief and joy can coexist in the same space.

For the Whole Family

We’re talking face painting, art-making workshops, student exhibitions from Oak Crest Middle School, and artist demonstrations happening throughout the festival grounds.

There’s a food truck onsite, so you can grab a bite while you take it all in. The atmosphere is genuinely welcoming – families with kids, couples, friends, solo visitors – everyone finds their place here.

Performances from groups like Ballet Folklórico de San Dieguito, Ballet Folklórico Rancho Buena Vista High School, and Mariachi Estado de Oro keep the energy going all afternoon. These aren’t amateur acts – you’re getting quality performances that showcase the depth and beauty of these art forms.

Worth the Drive to North County

If you’ve never made it up to the San Elijo Campus for this, it’s worth putting on your calendar. The festival manages to feel both intimate and expansive, honoring tradition while creating space for everyone to connect with the meaning behind Dia de los Muertos. And since it’s free, there’s really no reason not to go.

See You There!

Bring the family, bring a photo for the ofrenda, and spend an afternoon celebrating life, art, and community in one of North County’s best cultural events.

📆 Saturday, October 25, 2025, 12 PM – 4 PM
📍 3333 Manchester Ave, Encinitas
🎟️ Free admission
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!