Sacramento’s Most Meaningful Halloween Weekend Gathering Is About Remembering

A photograph. A favorite food. A flower placed beside a familiar face.Sometimes, the smallest things carry the biggest memories. Growing up Catholic Latina, this was a huge part of my own family tradition and culture here in Sacramento. October 31st, we celebrated trick or treating. November 1st, was mass for all Saints Day and on November 2nd, we went to St. Mary's cemetary to watch the Azteca dancers initiate the ceremony to unite with those in memory who passed. In fact, my earliest memory of Dia de los Muertos was making my first **máscara de calavera**—a skull mask, within my bilingual Spanish speaking kindergarten class at Washington Elementary. If you haven't had the chance to experience this tradition, I invite you to join at this upcoming event.This October, Sacramento families will gather at **El Panteón de Sacramento** to honor the people whose stories continue long after their lives have ended. Hosted by the Latino Center of Art & Culture, the two-day Día de los Muertos celebration takes place **October 30–31, 2026, at 2700 Front Street**. More than 30 community altars will honor departed loved ones through photographs, flowers, offerings and personal keepsakes. secure.givelively.orgFor anyone looking for something meaningful to experience in Sacramento this season, this is an opportunity to slow down, learn and connect.

**An evening of remembrance and celebration**Friday’s program includes a blessing of the altars, an exhibition opening and music by Raices, DAlebrije and DJ Revoltoso. Saturday brings folklórico dancers, live music and banda. The setting combines colorful ofrendas with marigolds and the fragrance of copal, creating a space for both reflection and celebration. secure.givelively.orgGive yourself time to appreciate the memorials. Each one represents someone who mattered—and the family or friends keeping that person’s memory alive.As a Sacramento native, these are the gatherings I love sharing through Leia in the City. Knowing a city means knowing the people, traditions and community spaces that give it meaning.**Make an afternoon of Front Street and Old Sacramento**

Before heading to El Panteón, visit **Atrium 916 at 1020 Front Street** for *Spirits of the Season*. The free exhibition blends Halloween art with Día de los Muertos traditions and includes a community altar where visitors can leave photographs or honor loved ones using provided materials. It is open **10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, through November 1**. atrium916.comFor another Friday evening option, **Movies Under the Stars** screens *A Quiet Place* on **October 30** at Old Sacramento State Historic Park, **111 I Street**. Check-in begins at **6 p.m.**, the movie starts at **7 p.m.**, and a costume contest takes place before the screening. movietickets.downtownsac.orgAdults planning a Halloween night out can also consider the **Spooky Alive After Five river cruise**, listed for **Saturday, October 31, from 6–7:30 p.m.** The 21-and-over outing features a live DJ, seasonal décor and drink specials. www.oldsacramento.comWhether you come for the art, the music or a moment of remembrance, leave room to experience the stories around you.**Plan your El Panteón visit**

**Friday, October 30:** Admission listed 5–10 p.m.; programming begins at 6 p.m.
**Saturday, October 31:** 3–10 p.m.
**Location:** Latino Center of Art & Culture, 2700 Front Street.
**Admission:** $10 for one day; $15 for both.
**Parking:** Free off-site parking at 2300 Front Street; limited accessible parking near the entrance. secure.givelively.org

Purchase tickets and confirm the latest schedule.**Leia Baraza | Sacramento real estate agent | eXp Realty**916-879-4435 | DRE #01500025*Move in Faith with Local Intelligence.*

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