The annual Día de Los Muertos Procession is here! We have put together a quick how-to guide so you can make the most of your experience!
Date: Thursday, November 2, 2023 – RAIN OR SHINE!
Time: Procession kicks off after sunset, at 6:00pm. The celebration will last until 8pm.
Location: San Diego Avenue; in front of the Immaculate Conception Church down to El Campo Santo cemetery
Information Booth: Corner of Twiggs Street & San Diego Avenue; providing maps of ofrendas (altars) in Old Town San Diego, event assistance
Crowd Size: The Procession, a free public event, draws over 5,000 visitors to Old Town San Diego each year. Please avoid overcrowding and keep a close watch on small children and pets. Police and Ambulance services will be on-site in the event of an emergency.
Participation: No formal sign-up process to participate–all are welcome! To help light the way for our departed loved ones, LED candles will be on sale for $2 each.
Special Guests: The Procession is led by the wonderful “Danza Azteca Atlachinolli” group performing traditional song and dance. We are also happy to welcome “Mariachi Los Toritos de San Diego” to help us celebrate after the Procession.
Attire: Many people will be in elaborate costumes with faces painted in the La Calavera Catrina-style. Many people are happy to have their pictures taken but please be respectful!
Community Ofrenda: A community ofrenda (altar) has been set up in El Campo Santo. Visitors are encouraged to add their own memories of the departed.
Ofrenda Tours: The State Historic Park will offer ofrenda tours during the day, and a self-guided tour will be available in late October; printed copies available at the Information Booth at each event.
Other Activities: Many businesses and restaurants will feature live music, face painting, and other activities.
Travel: Traffic will be heavy during the event. Visitors are strongly encouraged to use public transit. Old Town Transit Center serves San Diego MTS Blue & Green Line Trolleys and local bus lines; North County Transit Coaster commuter trains; Amtrak Pacific Surfliner trains; UCSD “Campus to Hillcrest” shuttle; USD “Campus to Old Town” shuttle.
Parking: Please check out our Parking Map for information on parking options. Please note, “Lot C” at Twiggs and Juan Streets will have a fee. Overflow parking is available after 5pm weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday at Caltrans lot at Sunset & Taylor Sts (4050 Taylor St).
Thank You: We sincerely appreciate the continued support of Bazaar del Mundo, Casa Guadalajara, Casa de Freds, Café Coyote, Old Town Market, the Whaley House Museum, and the City of San Diego’s Art & Culture Commission! We couldn’t make this happen without you!
