Dia de los Muertos in Long Beach

Día de los Muertos–Day of the Dead–is a Mexican celebration of our departed loved ones that takes place each year on November 1 and 2. People set up altars–called ofrendas–with photos, favorite foods, candles and other items collected to help the departed find their way back home. Folks also visit the cemetery to commune with their ancestors and loved ones while tidying up gravesites, and enjoying time with family. Today, this holiday is popular across Southern California, and there are several local Día de los Muertos celebrations in Long Beach.

2ND & PCH

On Saturday, October 28, the 2ND & PCH shopping center will host a Dia de los Muertos Festival from 4 to 8 P.M. The festival will include mariachi and folklórico performances, artisanal vendors, and an ofrenda installation. Local nonprofit organization Able ARTS Work will have a themed craft station for children, and kids can take photos with costumed characters. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed with flower crowns and Day of the Dead makeup.

Credit: 2nd & PCH

MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART

The Museum of Latin American Art will host its Day of the Dead Family Festival on Sunday, October 29, at 11 A.M. Attendees can enjoy food stations, beer and wine, and sweet treats, plus live performances throughout the event. Children can participate in a sugar skull workshop, printmaking station or get their face painted. Come dressed for the holiday and participate in the Catrina/Catrine costume contest for a chance to win the $500 grand prize.

Credit: MOLAA

CITY OF LONG BEACH PARADE & FESTIVAL

The City of Long Beach’s 8th annual Día de los Muertos Parade and Festival will take place on Saturday, November 4. The event kicks off with the Grand Parade on Pine Avenue at 11 A.M. The Arte y Ofrendas Festival at Rainbow Lagoon begins at 12 noon, featuring arts and crafts, music and entertainment, as well as food and beverage offerings until 10 P.M. The parade will be broadcast on ABC7 Los Angeles on Sunday, November 5.

GUSTO BREAD

At this time of year, local artisanal panadería Gusto Bread (2710 E 4th St) creates its seasonal pan de muerto, a sweet bread flavored with orange zest, fennel, and vanilla and finished with corn husk sugar. Stop by the bakery Friday to Sunday through November 5 to try one with a cup of Gusto’s café de olla or xocolatl. Best to line up when they’re hot, right out of the oven at 9 A.M., since the popular treats regularly sell out.

Credit: Gusto Bread
About the Author
Claire Atkinson
Claire Atkinson is a Southern California native who has lived in Long Beach for nearly 20 years. She spends her free time visiting local parks, farmers markets, and museums, and loves learning about Long Beach history and culture.