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Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, is almost here, and Orange County is gearing up to honor loved ones through vibrant ofrendas (altars), traditional music, art, food and cultural experiences. Celebrated on November 1 and 2, the holiday is a beautiful reminder that remembering those we have lost can be joyful, colorful and full of life.
From community festivals and traditional ofrendas to art and dining experiences, here are our picks for where to celebrate Día de los Muertos in Orange County this year.
Calaca Mamas Cantina, Anaheim
For a celebration that lasts well beyond the holiday itself, we love Calaca Mamas Cantina in Anaheim, a Mexican restaurant founded by two sisters whose personal connection to Día de los Muertos is reflected throughout the space.
Created as an homage to family, tradition and the spirit of Día de los Muertos, Calaca Mamas offers guests a way to experience the holiday beyond its traditional dates. At the heart of the restaurant is a traditional ofrenda honoring the founders’ parents and loved ones of the restaurant team. The space also features colorful murals by Mexican artists, painted calacas and other cultural artwork that celebrate the beauty and significance of the tradition.
The menu carries that same spirit, with elevated takes on Mexican classics and beloved favorites made with quality ingredients, including grass-fed meats, sustainably sourced seafood and non-GMO products. Handcrafted margaritas, cocktails and spirit-free beverages round out the experience.
Noche de Altares, Santa Ana: Saturday, November 7
Santa Ana’s Noche de Altares is one of the largest and most beloved Día de los Muertos celebrations in Orange County, filling the streets with community altars built by families, schools and local organizations, alongside live music, art and food. It is a moving, joyful night and a true community tradition.
Bowers Museum Day of the Dead Festival, Santa Ana: Sunday, November 1
The Bowers Museum hosts its Mexican Day of the Dead family festival on Sunday, November 1, a great pick for families looking to introduce kids to the traditions of the holiday through art, music and hands-on activities in Santa Ana’s museum district.
Day of the Dead: A Night of Community & Culture, Anaheim: Friday, October 30
Anaheim gets an early start with Day of the Dead: A Night of Community & Culture on Friday, October 30. Best of all, this community celebration is free to attend.
More Ways to Taste the Holiday
For a celebratory dinner, Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen in Orange is a local favorite for elevated Mexican cuisine in a gorgeous, hacienda-style setting. And do not skip the pan de muerto, the traditional sweet bread of the season, at Paderia, because no Día de los Muertos celebration is complete without it.
However you choose to celebrate, Orange County offers plenty of ways to honor the holiday and explore its rich cultural traditions this season.
