2017 Guide to Santa Ana's Dia de los Muertos Celebrations

​Dia de los Muertos is one of the most popular events celebrated across the city of Santa Ana. From Downtown to MainPlace Mall, the Bowers Museum to Fairhaven Cemetary and even Valley High School, the celebration of life and death resonates with residents and visitors each year. 

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Viva La Vida - October 21

Viva la Vida is the first shot-across-the-bow signaling the arrival of Dia de los Muertos season in Santa Ana. Founded by Calacas Cafe owner Rudy Cordova, Viva la Vida's modern take on the holiday included a Lucha Libre theme and a new location in the heart of DTSA. Visit their Facebook page to see pictures of the event which was nicely paired with the annual DTSA 5k Run.

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Dia de los Muertos at MainPlace Mall - October 28

MainPlace Mall hosts a popular Dia de los Muertos celebration each year that keeps getting better and better. Don't miss the main stage at Macy's Court with live performances of indigenous Mexican music by Martin Espino, Folklorico dance by Ballet Folklorico Raices, Santa Ana High School's award-winning Mariachi Band, and music and dance by OCCTAC. 

The celebration continues with kid's coloring activities, face painting, cookie decorating (while supplies last), an art show featuring work by Santa Ana High School Unified School District students, and a photo booth!  Visit their Facebook Event Page and invite your friends.

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Valley de los Muertos - November 1

The talented students and teachers at Valley High School are collaborating once again for an awesome free community event that features art, food, dance, banda, altars and mariachi. Show the Falcons some love and stop by for a great time 5-9pm. More information on Facebook.

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Dia de los Muertos at Fairhaven Cemetery - November 1

Join Fairhaven Cemetery as they celebrate and remember those we have lost. Their service held at Waverley Chapel includes live music, dance performances and traditional refreshments. More info on Facebook.

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15th Annual Noche de Altares: “Quinceañera” - Nov. 4

Noche de Altares is consistently ranked Santa Ana's favorite event drawing nearly 40,000 visitors to downtown to see over 100 altars lining Calle Cuatro (4th Street). According to the organizers, "For one night, families, students, community organizations, activists, artists, and businesses are invited to build an altar in memory of a deceased loved one or to bring awareness to a social issue. By making altars, participants are inviting fellow community members into their own life and passions for a loved one. Over the years we have seen altars bring strangers together through mutual compassion, understanding and dialogue. Families reunite to remember and honor their loved ones." Learn more on Facebook.

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Day of the Dead Festival at Bowers Museum - Nov. 5

Close out the season with the annual Day of the Dead event at the Bowers Museum during their monthly installment of Sunday free family festivals. The Bowers puts on a show-stopper to honor our departed ones with music, dance and art. Sponsored by The Nicholas Endowment. Share the event on Facebook.

Story by Ryan Smolar