Olvera Street Merchants Association Foundation
"Preserving our past to enlighten our future."
Dia de los
Muertos
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL
OCTOBER 25 THRU NOVEMBER 2, 2023
For over 35 years, the merchants on Olvera Street have celebrated Dia de los Muertos. The celebration has evolved to incorporate the pre-Columbian, Aztec, Mayan and Catholic rituals surrounding death. Each night, a vibrant and colorful procession sets the stage for our ceremony.
Dia de los Muertos is, in fact, a celebration of life – it is not a time to mourn our loved ones, rather it is a time to remember the lives they lead and the many things they enjoyed during that life. Death is a part of life, and so we honor it. Dia de los Muertos at Olvera Street is the only celebration of its kind in Los Angeles – A nine (9) day festival, with a nightly procession, community altars on display, and entertainment.
To support this & other traditional events on Olvera Street, please click here:
October 28 thru November 2
10:00am to 9:00pm
LAS OFRENDAS
OUTDOOR ALTAR DISPLAY
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No Drinking, Eating, Smoking, or Loitering around altars
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Please respect the altar spaces
NOVENARIO PROCESSION
October 25 thru November 2
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Traditional Mayan Blessing/Soul Cleansing takes place before and after the procession
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Procession includes:
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Grupo Tartalejos – an indigenous Aztec group leading the procession with incense and ceremonial blessing
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Aztec Dancers
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“Living Muertos” – participants dress up as skeletons
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Procession leads to nightly ceremony in the Kiosko, where the loved ones of a merchant family or special community member is chosen to be honored
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Free sweet bread & beverages are given to all in attendance
TEATRO DEL BARRIO PRESENTS
La Danza de la Muerte
October 25 thru November 2
6:00pm
This beautiful theatrical performance tells the story of
Dia de los Muertos with its indigenous roots and how it has transformed to our modern-day celebrations. Join us for this vibrant performance!
Saturday & Sunday
October 28 & 29
11:00am to 9:00pm
FACE PAINTING*
*There is a charge for Face Painting. Each face painter has their own style and are individual operators, separate from OSMAF. Price list posted at booth.
Wednesday & Thursday
November 1 & 2
4:00pm to 9:00pm
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Interested in Sponsoring this event?
Please contact osmaf.info@gmail.com for sponsorship information.
