Dia de los Muertos at the Natural History Museum

On Sunday, November 1, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County marks Dia de los Muertos with a daytime celebration built around remembrance, music and hands-on art. It is an easy pick if you are making a list of things to do in Los Angeles around the Day of the Dead, and it suits kids and adults alike.

When: Sunday, November 1, 2026, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles Price: Free with paid museum admission and for members

What to expect

The museum describes the day as a way to honor the customs and heritage of a tradition observed across Mexico and Latin America, where families remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have died. Several things run all day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.:

• The museum's interpretive ofrenda (altar) is on view, and visitors are invited to look closely and notice what items it holds.
• A floral display from partners Latinx with Plants invites you to add a message for someone you want to honor.
• Latino/a/x vendors set up so you can support local businesses.
• A reflection activity lets you write a message to someone you remember.
• A calavera mask activity gives kids a skull mask to color in.

The timed program

Two scheduled moments are worth planning around. At 11:30 a.m., Lil' Libros leads a bilingual storytime of the book Huesos, aimed at younger visitors. From 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Mariachi Las Catrinas perform a Dia de los Muertos set. Arrive a little early if you want a spot near the music, and plan on a slower stroll through the ofrenda before or after.

Planning your visit

The celebration is free with paid museum admission and for members, and the museum directs you to its event page to get tickets. Book ahead rather than counting on walk-up availability, since popular family days can fill up. The museum sits in Exposition Park, so allow time for parking or for a Metro ride and a short walk.

If you are scanning upcoming events Los Angeles has to offer before the end of the month, this one pairs well with the other altar displays and community celebrations happening across the city that week. A midday start keeps the afternoon open for the museum's regular exhibits too, so you can turn the visit into a full day.

Details can change, so check the museum's official page before you head out.