Dia de los Muertos

Published on October 29, 2025

Santa Monica Pier Celebrates Día de los Muertos with Two-Day Cultural Tribute, Art Installations, and Live Performances November 1–2

The Santa Monica Pier Corporation will honor the vibrant Mexican tradition of Día de los Muertos—the Day of the Dead—with its sixth annual celebration on Saturday, November 1, from 3 to 10 p.m., and Sunday, November 2, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., inside the historic Merry Go-Round building on the Pier. Presented by Northgate Market, the free two-day community event celebrates remembrance, family, and cultural artistry through live music, dance, storytelling, and a large-scale public art installation.

Visitors are invited to contribute to a communal altar honoring loved ones who have passed and explore installations by local artist Sylvia Sanchez, alongside contributions from Renay Regalado Garcia, Celina Jacques, Fernando Escobar and Christine Lopez.

The beloved Día de los Muertos celebration transforms the century-old Carousel into a space of color, creativity, and collective reflection—adorned with marigolds, papel picado, and handmade ofrendas.

WHAT:
Dia de los Muertos

WHEN:
Saturday, November 1st (3pm-10pm)

Sunday, November 2nd (11am-2pm)

WHERE:

The Santa Monica Pier

Guests can enjoy face painting, art displays, vendor offerings, and hot chocolate from Soda Jerks while strolling through the transformed venue. Guests are encouraged to bring a photo of a loved one to contribute to the community ofrenda. Photocopies rather than originals are recommended, as frames are not provided, and items must be collected after the event.

Event Highlights – Saturday, November 1

• 3:00 p.m. – Traditional Aztec Blessing at the West End and Kids Pan de Muerto Class
• 3:15 p.m. – Parade immediately after Blessing to the Merry Go-Round Building
• 3:30 p.m. – Blessing of the Ofrendas inside the Merry Go-Round
• 4:00 p.m. – Santa Monica Ballet Folklórico performances inside the Merry Go-Round
• 5:00 p.m. – Mariachi Mexcal performance inside the Merry Go-Round
• 5:00 p.m. – Grupo La Rosa Folklórico performance on the outdoor stage
• 7:00 p.m. – Band performance by All the Vibes Band on the outdoor stage

On Sunday, November 2, the celebration continues as the community is invited to return and visit the altars and installations at their own pace while the Merry Go-Round building is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

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Feature image courtesy of The Santa Monica Pier Corporation.