By Magdy Zara
The Day of the Dead celebration is one of the most deeply rooted Latino traditions in the United States. Although it originated in Mexico, it has spread throughout the country.
This weekend, various activities are planned, where colorful altars, traditional cuisine, music, and joyful festivities come together to honor our loved ones. Among them are:
*The Ballet Folklórico México Danza and Mariachi Mexicanísimo have joined forces to commemorate Day of the Dead and celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Oakland Ballet Company with the performance of Luna Mexicana.
Luna Mexicana is one of the most elaborate and inclusive Day of the Dead events in the Bay Area. It is a beautiful combination of exuberant dances, joyful music, and colorful costumes. The event will take place this Saturday, November 1st, starting at 2:30 PM, at the Paramount Theater, located at 2201 Broadway, Suite LL17, Oakland.
*Yerba Buena Gardens will also host a magical Day of the Dead celebration and a tribute to Maestro Eddie Palmieri, whose music and spirit continue to inspire generations of the Latino community.
This free, family-friendly event will be held on November 1st, starting at 4 PM, at Yerba Buena Gardens, located at 750 Howard Street, San Francisco. Admission is free.
*Skylawn Memorial Park is also celebrating Day of the Dead this weekend and offering a fun-filled day for the family. There will be altars on display, live mariachi artists, dancers, Aztec drums and folk dances, children’s activities, local artists, food vendors, and much more.
* Take this opportunity to take photos and bring a picture of your loved ones whom you wish to honor. Saturday, November 1st and Sunday, November 2nd, 2025, starting at 9:00 AM, at Skylawn Memorial Park, 888 LifeMark Road, Half Moon Bay.
Meanwhile, the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra offers one of the most beautiful Day of the Dead celebrations, featuring colorful altars, exhibits, face painting, and an electric concert by the SF Symphony.
The San Francisco Symphony’s annual Day of the Dead concert will be this Saturday, November 1st, while the exhibit will be open until November 12th.
The event will be held at Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Avenue, this November 1st starting at 2:00 PM, and ticket prices range from $62 to $200.
