3rd Annual Día de Los Muertos Celebration

The 3^rd Annual Dia De Los Muertos Celebration is Saturday, October 28 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Watch the South Bay neighborhood transform into a beautiful and lively, cempacuchil filled extravaganza to celebrate the lives of past loved ones. The free community event is more than just an exciting experience for the entire family; it’s a cherished tradition that brings the entire community together to commemorate departed loved ones while embracing the joy that life brings.

Taking place in the heart of Downtown Chula Vista, the celebration will be filled with a community altar, an altar contest, dance performances, a Catrin and Catrina Ensemble Contest for cash prizes, food vendors, and themed photo opportunities throughout the neighborhood.

At the core of the cultural tradition is the community altar, a symbol signifying love and remembrance. The South Bay neighborhood encourages the community to participate in the touching tradition by bringing photos of loved ones who have passed and place them in the neighborhood’s community altar. As a holiday dedicated to celebrating the lives of those who have passed, the altar will be a collection of memories that will be cherished by all.

Along with the community altar, there will be chances to win cash prizes by participating in the contests hosted by the Downtown Chula Vista Association. This year’s altar contest will feature three different categories: best altar created by school/students, best altar created by the general public, and best overall altar. Attached to claiming the victory, the winners of the contest will win cash prizes. For more information and the application form click here.

Guests are also encouraged to dress up in traditional Catrin and Catrina attire or put their own twist on the traditional look. Those with the best and most creative looks will take home a cash prize ranging from $100 to $500. The categories for the contest includes best youth (12 and under), best catrín (male), best catrína (female), and best couple. To apply or to learn more click here.

Fun activities will be set up for families such as a kid’s craft station, treats, delicious food, vendors, themed photo opportunities throughout the neighborhood. Towards the end of the evening, a special screening of Guillermo del Toro’s "Book of Life" will be played in the Memorial Bowl starting at 7 p.m.