Día de los Muertos Events in Dana Point and San Clemente
Published Oct 26, 2026
Día de los Muertos offers families an opportunity to remember loved ones while learning about a meaningful cultural tradition. Two South Orange County cities are holding free community celebrations this year, with music, art, performances, food, and family activities.
Here is what families should know before attending.
Día de los Muertos in Dana Point
Third annual Dana Point celebration
Sunday, November 1, 2026 · 2–7 p.m. · La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point · Free admission
The celebration will feature ofrendas, live music, dancing, chalk art, crafts, food, photo opportunities, and activities for families. Scheduled entertainment includes mariachi and folklórico performances, a Selena tribute, and Banda AZ. A free trolley is scheduled to run between Dana Hills High School and La Plaza Park from 1:30–7:30 p.m. for families who park at the school.
Día de los Muertos in San Clemente
Fourth annual San Clemente celebration
Monday, November 2, 2026 · 2–5 p.m. · Max Berg Plaza Park, 1100 Calle Puente, San Clemente · Free admission
Planned activities include sugar-skull crafts, face painting, storytime, live music, community booths, traditional food, Ballet Folklórico, and Danza Azteca performances. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. A community altar will be displayed at the park from October 30 through November 3; visitors may add photographs of family members, friends, community members, or pets they would like to remember.
Plein-air art contest
Monday, November 2 · Check-in at 1:30 p.m. · Painting 2–4 p.m. · $10 entry fee
Youth (12 and under), teen (13–17), and adult (18+) divisions will award first-, second-, and third-place prizes and display winning artwork. Preregistration is required, and artists must bring their own materials. Review the city’s contest rules before entering.
Helping children understand the celebration
Día de los Muertos centers on remembrance and connection. Before attending, parents can explain that the altars, photographs, marigolds, music, and decorated skulls are ways of celebrating the lives of people who have died.
Children who want to participate may bring a photograph for the community altar in San Clemente, create a small drawing in memory of someone, or think of a favorite story about a relative or pet.
Because both events include outdoor activities and live entertainment, bringing water, sun protection, and a light layer for later in the day can make the visit more comfortable.
Event details can change. Check the organizer’s page before leaving home.