NewsFox LA (KTTV / Fox 11)October 29, 2026Los Angeles County
Annual Day of the Dead celebrations grow in popularity across the United States
Photo: Fox LA (KTTV / Fox 11)
The two-day celebration known as Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, takes place annually on November 1 and 2 to honor deceased loved ones. Originally rooted in pre-Columbian Mesoamerican rituals and Latin American traditions, the holiday has gained widespread popularity across cities throughout the United States.
Read the full story at Fox LA (KTTV / Fox 11)Why It Matters
Communities nationwide host public events, parades, and altars during the two-day period, reflecting the expanding cultural presence of the holiday across diverse U.S. cities.
Key Facts
- Day of the Dead is celebrated annually on November 1 and 2.
- The holiday honors departed souls who are believed to return to visit their loved ones.
- November 1 is traditionally focused on the spirits of children, and November 2 on the spirits of adults.
- Roots of the celebration trace back to pre-Columbian Mesoamerican rituals some 3,000 years ago.
- Contemporary celebrations blend Latin American traditions and Roman Catholicism.
- Festivities feature painted skulls, costumes, street parades, and altars known as ofrendas.
- Marigolds are used as a primary decoration because their scent is believed to attract souls.
- The Chicano movement introduced and popularized the celebration in the United States during the 1970s.
- San Antonio and Los Angeles are highlighted as major U.S. destinations for the holiday alongside cities like New York, Chicago, and Seattle.
Who's Mentioned
locationAnchorage“Location where events marking the occasion can be found.”locationSan Francisco“Location where events marking the occasion can be found.”locationFort Lauderdale“Location where events marking the occasion can be found.”locationSeattle“Location where events marking the occasion can be found.”locationChicago“Location where events marking the occasion can be found.”locationSan Antonio“Described as one of the best and largest destinations to celebrate the holiday i”PersonRegina Marchi“Rutgers University journalism and media studies professor discussing the Chicano”locationNew York City“Location where events marking the occasion can be found.”locationLos Angeles“Described as one of the best and largest destinations to celebrate the holiday i”OrganizationRutgers University“Academic institution providing context on the term Chicano.”locationPhoenix“Location where events marking the occasion can be found.”