San José Museum of Art to Host Free Día de los Muertos Community Day
The San José Museum of Art (SJMA) will host a free community day celebrating el Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 11am to 4pm.The event will offer a range of hands-on activities, demonstrations, and performances honoring the traditions of this significant holiday. Admission to both the program and the Museum will be free all day, from 11am to 6pm.
Visitors can participate in activities including sugar skull decorating, amate drawing inspired by traditional Mexican folk art, and the creation of castanets. Entertainment will feature performances by Los Lupeños de San José, a Mexican folk dance company established in 1969, and live music from Lincoln High Mariachi, a youth mariachi ensemble. A traditional offering altar will be presented by local artist Lissa Jones. The event will also include participation from community partners dreamer’s RoadMap, Open Space Authority, and more Más Marami Arts.
El Día de los Muertos, observed on November 1st and 2nd, is a joyful holiday celebrated in Latin America and increasingly within the United States, honoring deceased ancestors through remembrance, music, food, and the construction of altars.
SJMA, founded in 1969, is a museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art, emphasizing inclusivity and innovation. The Museum serves a diverse audience, offering educational programs for school children, families, adults, students, and community groups.SJMA strives to be a welcoming and accessible cultural resource for San José and the surrounding areas.
Located on Plaza de Cesar Chavez at 110 South Market Street in downtown San José, California, SJMA is open Thursdays from 4-9pm, Fridays from 11am-9pm, and Saturdays & Sundays from 11am-6pm. Regular admission is $20 for adults and $15 for seniors. Admission is free for members,college students,youth and children ages 17 and under,and school teachers (with valid ID).The Museum offers free admission from 6-9pm on the first Friday of each month. Further data is available at 408.271.6840 or SanJoseMuseumofArt.org.
