As we inch toward Halloween, scary events emerge from the shadows. Of note is the Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever Cemetery — a truly spectacular event to attend. This year, the guiding theme is the Monarch Butterfly and its winter home, the Mexican state of Michoacán. Michoacán is also one of the two cultural heartlands in Mexico where the ancient traditions of Dia de los Muertos have been celebrated the longest and most vibrantly. It’s a strange feeling to be walking  among the dead on the Day of the Dead, but this event truly pays homage.

• Los Angeles Area:
  • Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever Cemetery (Oct 26): This is one of California’s largest Day of the Dead celebrations, featuring elaborate altars, dance rituals, music, and art installations. Visitors can participate in costume contests and experience the spiritual side of the holiday with “Tonas and Nahuales” as the theme​. On board for the event will be:
  • Pedro Fernández
    Los Lobos
    Reyna Tropical
    Ambar Lucid
    El Santo Golpe
    Niko Rubio
    Tania Libertad
    Estevie
    maye
    Danie
    Gorrion Serrano
    Miguel Inzunza
    Gabriela Baroques
    DJ Que Madre
    Cumbiaton DJs
    Mexican Dubwiser DJ
    Hundreds of Aztec and pre-Hispanic dances
    90 amazing altars
    Curated Art Exhibition
    Children’s Plaza
    Arts and Crafts Vendors
    Culinary Vendors
    Photo Booth
    https://hollywoodforever.com/event/dia-de-los-muertos

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  • Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios (through Nov 3): Prepare for intense scares as iconic horror movie characters come to life in immersive mazes. This year, expect haunted houses based on A Quiet Place, Ghostbusters, and other horror classics​
     
     
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  • Pixar Putt Mini-Golf (Long Beach, ongoing): For some lighter fun, check out the Pixar-themed mini-golf course where famous movie scenes have been transformed into playful golf holes​
    Secret Los Angeles

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• San Diego:
  • Autumn Festival at San Diego Zoo Safari Park (Oct 27): Enjoy wildlife encounters and fall-themed activities such as harvest food, live music, and family-friendly entertainment​
    San Diego Travel Resource

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  • Mr. Jack O’ Lantern’s Pumpkin Patch (through Oct 31): A festive spot perfect for families, featuring pumpkin picking, games, and a spooky maze​
    San Diego Travel Resource

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  • Sip & Scare Sunset Special (Oct 26): For something unique, embark on a haunted train ride through San Diego’s Campo backcountry, where passengers can enjoy themed cocktails along the eerie journey​
    San Diego Travel Resource

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• Cultural and Film Events:
  • Monster Mash at the Academy Museum (Oct 26, Los Angeles): Film lovers can join this special Halloween event filled with spooky classics, interactive exhibits, and special screenings​
    Secret Los Angeles

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  • Italian Film Festival (through Oct 27, San Diego): This film festival celebrates the best of Italian cinema, offering a variety of screenings, from dramas to comedies​
    San Diego Travel Resource