Photo: Asha Moné for Gloria Molina Grand Park
One of Downtown LA’s most anticipated cultural traditions is back. Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos returns this fall for a 10-day free celebration running October 24 through November 2, 2026, transforming the park at 200 N. Grand Avenue into a public space for remembrance, art, and community.
This year’s programming centers on the theme “The Power of One — It Starts with One. One Becomes Many,” an exploration of how individual memories fold into the shared history of a community. More than 16 altars (ofrendas), curated by artist and Día de los Muertos educator Consuelo G. Flores, alongside LA artists, families, and community organizations will be on display daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. across Blocks 1 and 2, from Grand Ave. to Hill St.
New this year is the inaugural Downtown Día de los Muertos mentorship program, pairing eight emerging artists with experienced professionals to learn the cultural traditions and craft of altar-making. Each mentee will build a personalized shoebox altar that becomes part of the park’s larger community ofrenda.
For a spooky, musical adventure by the light of thousands of candles, check out Candlelight’s Halloween concerts
Candlelight: Halloween Classics
Candlelight Koreatown: Halloween Classics
Candlelight Burbank: Halloween Classics
Candlelight Hollywood: Halloween Classics
Photo: John McCoy for The Music Center
What to do at the Día de los Muertos festival
The celebration opens on Saturday, October 24 (11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) as part of the 10th annual Grand Ave Arts: All Access. Hosted by composer and vocalist Anaís Azul, the Opening Day Celebration features live performances by El Río, Mariachi Arcoiris, and Grupo Bella.
Youth from A Place Called Home will contribute artwork to the park’s performance stage, while the Ohtli Yollotl Curanderismo Collective will offer traditional spiritual cleanses. Hands-on activities like sugar-skull decorating, face painting, paper weaving, and portrait sessions are open to all ages.
Photo: Asha Moné for Gloria Molina Grand Park
The 10 days close with the Noche de los Muertos Closing Night Ceremony on Sunday, November 1 (3:00 – 7:00 p.m.) on the Performance Lawn between Grand Ave. and Hill St. Los Negrete Fam and additional guest artists will perform, alongside a vendor market and more interactive arts experiences.
All events are free and open to the public. For the full schedule and updates, visit grandparkla.org or follow the park at @grandpark_la on Instagram, X, TikTok, and more.