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California Museum to Host 13th Annual Día de los Muertos Fiesta on Saturday, Oct. 10
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — August 3, 2026: Tickets are now available for the California Museum’s highly anticipated Día de los Muertos Fiesta on Saturday, October 10. Now in its 13th year, the event will honor the rich Mexican tradition of the Day of the Dead and celebrate the grand opening of “Sendero de las Almas Luminosas” (Path of the Luminous Souls), a new experience featuring a path of altars illuminating spaces throughout the Museum.
Fiesta attendees will enjoy food and drinks for sale by local favorite Mayahuel, a ceremonial blessing by Maquilli Tonatiuh Aztec Dancers, live performances by Las Hijas de Maria, Ballet Folklorico, and Mariachi Bonitas de Dinorah Klingler and a vibrant Mercado de los Muertos (Market of the Dead) featuring handmade items by local vendors and artists. Family-friendly activities include sugar skull decorating workshops and crafts for children ages three and up.
In addition to celebrating Mexican culture and tradition, the Fiesta will mark the grand opening of a new Día de los Muertos display at the Museum. Rather than occupying a single dedicated space, the altars will be woven throughout the Museum’s permanent galleries. Each altar will be placed within a California Museum signature exhibit and reflect that exhibit’s theme. Guests can navigate the experience, titled “Sendero de las Almas Luminosas” (Path of the Luminous Souls), using a map available upon entry.
This year’s altars will be created by members of Self Help Graphics & Arts, an iconic cultural arts organization serving Chicana/o and Latinx artists based in Boyle Heights. In addition to viewing the displays, members of the public are invited to pay tribute to lost loved ones at a community altar, which will remain on view through the close of the exhibit on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026.
Fiesta tickets are $15 and must be purchased in advance. California Museum members will have access to an exclusive Members-Only VIP Lounge & Terrace along with free admission to the event. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Dia2026.eventbrite.com
ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA MUSEUM:
The California Museum—home of the California Hall of Fame—focuses on the state’s rich history, its diversity and its unique influence on the world of ideas, innovation, art and culture. Through interactive experiences, the Museum inspires visitors to make a mark on history. Located at 1020 O Street in the March Fong Eu Secretary of State complex, the Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $8-$10. Plan a visit at californiamuseum.org
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For a downloadable press kit, including images and image credits, visit CaliforniaMuseum.org/Dia26-PressKit
MEDIA CONTACT:
Danielle Wood, Communications & Marketing Director
California Museum
916-591-2677