The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden will present its first-ever Día de los Muertos community celebration on Sunday, October 25, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Designed as an evening of remembrance, beauty and cultural connection, the family-friendly celebration will transform the Arboretum’s Garden landscape into a vibrant space filled with flowers, music, art and opportunities for reflection.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican tradition that honors the lives and memories of family members and friends who have passed. Rather than being an occasion centered solely on mourning, it celebrates the continuing bonds of love, memory and family.
As twilight settles across the grounds, guests will be welcomed by whimsical butterfly-winged greeters and escorted into the garden. Butterflies hold a special place in Día de los Muertos traditions and are often viewed as symbols of returning souls, transformation and the enduring connection between the living and those who came before them.
At the center of the evening will be a community altar, or ofrenda, offering visitors a shared place for remembrance and reflection. Traditional altars often feature photographs, flowers, candles and meaningful objects associated with loved ones. The Arboretum’s altar will serve as the heart of the celebration and a gathering place for community connection.
Visitors will be invited to wander the garden paths while discovering local artists, fresh flowers and plants, cultural programming and a thoughtfully selected collection of local Latino-owned businesses and makers. Food and beverages inspired by the flavors and traditions of the community will also be available.
Families are encouraged to experience the celebration together. Children’s art projects and creative activities will offer younger guests meaningful and playful ways to learn about Día de los Muertos traditions. Face painting will be available for an additional charge.
The evening will feature community collaborator Aurora Anaya, founder of Bloom Wild Bookshop. Additional participating artists and vendors are expected to be announced as the event approaches.
Admission is $15 for adult members of the Arboretum and $18 for non-member adults. Tickets for children ages 3 through 12 are $8, while children age 2 and younger may attend free of charge.
Through flowers, art, storytelling and shared remembrance, the Arboretum’s inaugural celebration will offer visitors a meaningful opportunity to experience Día de los Muertos amid the mystical twilight and natural beauty of the garden.
Advance registration is available through the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden at arboretum.org/events
