The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is hosting its 37th annual Día de los Muertos Free Family Day on Sunday, October 25, 2026, inviting families and visitors to celebrate the Mexican holiday through art, music, and meaningful traditions. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly weekend activity or simply want to experience more of Santa Barbara's vibrant cultural community, this is a wonderful way to spend a Sunday downtown.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican tradition honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed away. For 37 years, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art has honored this tradition by displaying altars created by students participating in the Museum's educational and outreach programs, along with local community groups. Throughout the day, the Museum's Art Learning Lab will offer hands-on Día de los Muertos-inspired activities for visitors of all ages. From 11 AM to 4 PM, families can participate in creating mini altars, still life prints, calavera puppets, and skull charms.
One of the day's highlights is the Día de los Muertos Calenda, a lively community procession developed and produced by the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB). Now in its third year, the Calenda draws on Oaxacan traditions and celebrates the connections among family, culture, and community. The festivities feature traditional music and dance from Oaxaca and Guerrero, with performances by cultural groups including Xochipilli de Santa Barbara, Danza Azteca Oxnard, and Banda de Viento San Jorge, among others. Participants will gather on the Museum's Front Terrace at 3:30 PM before the procession begins at 4 PM and makes its way to De La Guerra Plaza.
Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
- Altars and Art Activities: 11 AM – 4 PM
- Calenda Procession: Participants will gather at 3:30 PM and the procession to De La Guerra Plaza will begin at 4 PM
- Location: Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Museum Galleries, Art Learning Lab, Front Terrace, and State Street
For additional information, visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art's official event page.
