Old Town is getting ready to come alive this fall to celebrate the Day of the Dead! Old Town San Diego’s Día de los Muertos is the place to celebrate the lives of loved ones that have passed on but return to be remembered on this important holiday. The celebration is held the weekend before the actual date of November 1st and 2nd. The weekend is a celebration of the history, culture, and heritage of the region that honors one of its most important holidays. It is believed that at this time that the spirits of loved ones who have died return to earth to celebrate with friends and family, during this happy, festive, very artistic, and visually stimulating time, which is not in any way to be confused with Halloween.

Tour of Altars

You will find Altars or ofrendas at most of the businesses in Old Town. Many businesses will be decorated and there will be a public altar at El Campo Santo cemetery on San Diego Avenue. It dates back to the early 1800’s and is the resting place for many famous people. The Day of the Dead celebration began in Old Town in 2012. Many other communities have joined in but Old Town is the most authentic and the only community that has a procession to the cemetery on November 2nd. Come and get your face painted which is the tradition and enjoy food and entertainment throughout the community. The best place to celebrate the lives of your loved ones that have passed on. This year the benefactor of this event is the Old Town San Diego Foundation. The OTSDF benefits the 4th grade program, find out more click their logo.