For over 30 years, the merchants on Olvera Street have celebrated Dia de los Muertos. The celebration has evolved to incorporate the pre-Columbian, Aztec, Mayan and Catholic rituals surrounding death. Each night, a vibrant and colorful procession sets the stage for our ceremony.
Dia de los Muertos is, in fact, a celebration of life – it is not a time to mourn our loved ones, rather it is a time to remember the lives they lead and the many things they enjoyed during that life. Death is a part of life, and so we honor it. Dia de los Muertos at Olvera Street is the only celebration of its kind in Los Angeles – A nine (9) day festival, with altars on display, children’s workshops, face painting, and entertainment throughout.
COMMUNITY ALTARS
OUTDOOR DISPLAY
On Display
October 28 through November 2
NOVENARIO PROCESSION
October 25-November 2
Nightly at 7:00pm
- Traditional Mayan Blessing/Soul Cleansing takes place before and after the procession
- Procession includes:
- Grupo Tartalejos – an indigenous Aztec group leading the procession with incense and ceremonial blessing
- Aztec Dancers
- Parade of “Living Muertos” – particpants dress up as skeletons in colorful traditional, and not-so-traditional costumes
- Procession leads to nightly ceremony in the Kiosko, where the loved ones of a merchant family or special community member is chosen to be honored
- Free sweet bread and champurrado are given to all in attendance
FACE PAINTING
Face Painters will be on site to turn you into a Calavera!
October 28 & 29
10:00am-8:00pm
Face Painting
provided by
Sugar Face & Body Art
November 1 &2
12:00-8:00pm
Face Painting
provided by
Carmen MacDonald
*There is a charge for Face Painting. Each face painter has their own style and are individual operators, separate from OSMAF.
Price list posted at booth.
ENTERTAINMENT
October 25 -November 2
Weekday Entertainment – 5:00pm
Weekend Entertainment – all day
Thank You To Our Generous Sponsors & Community Partners!
