Los Angeles honors Día de los Muertos with events at Hollywood Forever Cemetery and Grand Park

Hundreds of people attended the 27th annual Día de los Muertos celebration at Hollywood Forever Cemetery on Saturday, CBS News Los Angeles reported.

Meanwhile, Gloria Molina Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles transformed into a vibrant cultural space for the 2026 Downtown Día de los Muertos event, running from October 24 through November 2, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The free outdoor exhibition featured a sacred processional and blessings by Ohtli Yollotl honoring Indigenous roots, as well as family-friendly activities such as face-painting, sugar skull workshops, and wellness offerings from community partners like the Children’s Institute.

Participants were invited to leave offerings at the community altar, continuing the tradition of honoring departed loved ones with ofrendas that include pictures, favorite foods, water, salt, candles, and marigolds to guide spirits home.

Altars were created in memory of notable individuals including former Los Angeles Supervisor Gloria Molina, artist Betye Saar, and former employees of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.

The events reflect the Mexican holiday’s belief that the spirits of ancestors return to visit the living during November 1 and 2, fostering community connection and remembrance in Los Angeles.