Courtesy of Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
Los Angeles is a melting pot of communities from every corner of the globe, but Mexican culture has left one of the city’s most unmistakable marks, from its delicious food to its iconic lowrider scene.
And when it comes to Día de los Muertos (perhaps Mexico’s most recognizable cultural traditions), the City of Angels has a fitting American epicenter… And this year is no exception, as Hollywood Forever Cemetery prepares to welcome thousands of people for its annual celebration of life, memory, and tradition.
Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
The 27th annual Día de los Muertos festival takes place on Saturday, October 24, from noon to midnight at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, located at 6000 Santa Monica Boulevard. This year’s theme is All Under One Sky (Bajo un mismo cielo).
There’s plenty to explore throughout the day, including more than 100 elaborate altars created by community members to honor their departed loved ones, a ceremonial procession featuring hundreds of Aztec dancers, and a Cathedral Mausoleum art exhibition showcasing original works. Visitors can also enjoy folklórico performances, arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, and a dedicated children’s area.
Music is another major part of the celebration. This year’s lineup features:
DannyLux
Trish Toledo
Tropa Magica
Los Shadows
DJ Que Madre
JoaQU.N
Dro Barlo
Tickets are available through the official festival website, with admission windows from noon to 4 p.m., 4 to 7 p.m., and 7 to 11 p.m.
The Largest Día de los Muertos Celebration in the U.S.
Hollywood Forever describes its annual festival as the largest Día de los Muertos celebration in the country. The tradition began in 1999 and has grown into a major cultural gathering, attracting attendees from across SoCal and beyond.
The scale is remarkable: the cemetery’s grounds accommodate more than 100 altars, five stages of music and dance, food and artisan vendors, and cultural exhibitions throughout the day.
If attendance numbers mirror last year’s turnout, the festival could once again draw a staggering 35,000 people.