Celebrating Día de los Muertos in the Bay Area: A Guide

Día de los Muertos, observed in early November, is a vibrant and meaningful holiday where the veil between the living and the dead is believed to thin. Rooted in Mexican tradition, it’s a time for joyous remembrance, filled with candle-lit celebrations and artistic altars. The Bay Area, with its rich cultural tapestry, is set to host numerous events honoring this special occasion.

Honoring Ancestors: The Spirit of Día de los Muertos

Día de los Muertos is more than just a holiday; it’s a profound cultural celebration of life and memory. Traditional festivities are characterized by bright orange cempasúchil (marigolds) and intricately designed ofrendas (altars) that beautifully commemorate the earthly legacies of family and loved ones. These altars, often adorned with photos, favorite foods, and trinkets, serve as heartfelt tributes.

While some Bay Area celebrations, like Día San Jose, faced cancellations or modifications due to heightened socio-political anxieties, the spirit of remembrance and community remains strong. Many organizations and cultural centers are moving forward with robust schedules, offering diverse ways for families and individuals to participate and connect.

Bay Area Día de los Muertos Event Highlights 2025

Art and Exhibitions

• SOMArts Cultural Center: ‘We Love You’ (San Francisco)
  This annual group exhibition showcases traditional altars and contemporary works by self-identified women, trans, and gender-nonconforming artists. A closing reception on November 7th will feature drag performances and an artistic marketplace. Dates: Oct 30 – Nov 7. Learn more.

• O’Hanlon Center: Día de los Muertos Exhibition (Mill Valley)
  Experience the fourth annual community altar exhibition, complete with traditional food, drink, music, and storytelling. Opening reception: Nov 2. Exhibition: Through Nov 30. Details here.

• Mexican Heritage Plaza: ‘Avenida de Altares’ (San Jose)
  Kick off festivities with an altar walk along Alum Rock Avenue, featuring ofrendas by local artists, live DJ sets, folk dance, and mariachi bands. Dates: Nov 1 (altar viewing through Nov 2). Visit their site.

Performances and Workshops

• Las Cafeteras Presents ‘Hasta La Muerte’ (Rohnert Park & San Francisco)
  Enjoy a Grammy Award-winning Los Angeles band’s original two-act theatrical production combining choreography, costumes, poetry, and traditional songs. Dates: Oct 30 (Rohnert Park), Oct 31 (SF). Rohnert Park tickets, SF Jazz tickets.

• Oakland Ballet: ‘Luna Mexicana’ (Oakland)
  The annual Día de los Muertos program features “Luna Mexicana” choreography by Graham Lustig and “Legacy,” celebrating the ballet’s 60th anniversary. Ballet Folklórico México Danza and Mariachi Mexicanisimo will also perform. Date: Nov 1. Find tickets.

• San Francisco Symphony: Día de los Muertos (San Francisco)
  Lina González-Granados conducts a special program of works by Latin American composers, featuring cellist Santiago Cañón-Valencia and dancers from Casa Círculo Cultural. Lobby art installations and pre-concert activities enhance the experience. Date: Nov 1. Get tickets.

Community Celebrations and Festivals

• Mission Community Market: Halloween and Día de los Muertos Market (San Francisco)
  Stock up on fall produce and holiday decorations while enjoying live music, a community ofrenda, and family-friendly activities. Date: Oct 30. Event details.

• Presidio Tunnel Tops: Día de los Muertos and Diwali Celebration (San Francisco)
  A family-friendly event exploring cultural connections through traditional arts and crafts, including paper-flower making, rangoli art, and a fire ceremony. Contribute to a public ofrenda. Date: Nov 1. More info.

• Oakland Día de los Muertos Festival: ‘Aquí Estamos y No Nos Vamos’ (Oakland)
  Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Fruitvale neighborhood’s festival with live music, carnival rides, cultural arts, low riders, food, and a community ofrenda. Date: Nov 2. Festival website.

• Redwood City Day of the Dead Celebration (Redwood City)
  A vibrant tribute with live performances, Catrina face painting, art installations, and a ceremonial procession. Explore a free exhibition of community-made ofrendas at the History Museum. Date: Nov 2. See event details.

Quick Guide to Bay Area Día de los Muertos Events

Connecting Through Culture and Remembrance

Despite any challenges, the Bay Area continues to offer a rich tapestry of events that uphold the traditions and profound meaning of Día de los Muertos. These gatherings provide vital opportunities for communities to come together, share memories, and celebrate the enduring presence of loved ones who have passed on.

Frequently Asked Questions About Día de los Muertos

• What is Día de los Muertos?
  It’s a Mexican holiday celebrated in early November, where families honor and remember their deceased loved ones, believing the spirits return to visit during this time.
• What are “ofrendas”?
  Ofrendas are artistic altars constructed to commemorate the dead. They are typically adorned with photos, candles, marigolds, and favorite foods or objects of the deceased.
• Why are marigolds important in Día de los Muertos?
  Cempasúchil, or marigolds, are believed to guide spirits back to their families with their vibrant color and strong scent.
• Are Bay Area Día de los Muertos events usually free?
  Many community festivals and altar viewings are free to attend, while performances or special workshops may have an admission fee. Check individual event listings for details.
• How can I participate in a community ofrenda?
  Many events, such as the S.F. Day of the Dead Festival of Altars and the Novato Community Procession, welcome contributions like flowers, photos, or small tokens for their public altars.

Whether you seek vibrant performances, reflective art exhibitions, or joyful community gatherings, the Bay Area provides a meaningful space to engage with the beauty and rich traditions of Día de los Muertos this year.

Celebrating Dia de los Muertos in the Bay Area