Gloria Molina Grand Park transforms into a light-filled, sacred civic shrine for 2026 presentation Downtown Day of the Dead. running October 24th to November 2nd, This free outdoor cultural exhibit invites all of Los Angeles to honor deceased loved ones and celebrate the connections of living communities. Highlights include: Sacred procession and blessing of Ohtli Yollotl, honoring Aboriginal roots. Family-friendly activities like face painting and sugar skull workshops, as well as wellness services from community partners like the Children’s Institute. Invite participants to leave something at the community altar.
Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday celebrated annually on November 1st and 2nd to commemorate the dead. It is believed that on Day of the Dead, the spirits of ancestors return to visit the living. Ofrendas (offerings) are created at cemeteries or homes with pictures, loved ones’ favorite foods, water, salt, candles and marigolds to guide the soul home.
Manny Velazquez, a 67-year-old teacher at Panorama High School, supports a statue of Katrina created by his students. The altar was erected in memory of many who have passed away, including former Los Angeles Supervisor Gloria Molina, artist Betty Sall and former employees of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.
(Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)
1. Lisa Markidis wears La Catrina makeup on her face at the official opening of the Dia De Los Muertos altar in Gloria Molina Grand Park. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times) 2. Lisa Markidis smiled when she saw Katrina makeup on her face. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)
David Dunlop of Carpinteria poses for a photo at The Wall Las Memorias altar at the opening of the Day of the Dead altar at Gloria Molina Grand Park.
(Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)
1. Diane Zuniga burns sage with the Ohtliyollat Collective to bless the opening of the Dia De Los Muertos altar at Gloria Molina Grand Park. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times) 2. Jesus Rios photographed “La Catrina,” created by students at Panorama High School under teacher Manny Velazquez and presented at the opening of the Dia De Los Muertos altar in Gloria Molina Grand Park. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times) 3. Jair Hernandez dressed in his best Aztec attire for the official opening of the Dia De Los Muertos altar in Gloria Molina Grand Park. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)
Consuelo G. Flores, altar artist and curator of the Day of the Dead altar at Gloria Molina Grand Park, wears La Catrina makeup at the community altar in downtown Los Angeles.
(Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)