22ND ANNUAL MICAILHUITL
DIA DE MUERTOS
OCTOBER 31 2 - 10 PM
NOVEMBER 1 10 AM - 6 PM
HISTORY PARK
635 PHELAN AVE. SAN JOSE, CA
OUR ANNUAL
DIA DE MUERTOS
CEREMONY
Experience the vibrant celebration of Mexica culture with Calpulli Tonahlehqueh. This lively event boasts an array of engaging activities for kids, captivating live entertainment, a delectable selection of food trucks, artisanal arts & crafts, skilled face painters, enticing vendors, a beautifully crafted ofrenda (offering space), delightful shopping opportunities, thrilling contests, and so much more.
Join us in San Jose, California, for a family-friendly gathering that honors and embraces the rich tapestry of Mexica heritage.
ACTIVITIES
DANZA AZTECA
Saturday: 5–9 PM | Sunday: 2–4 PM
Hosted by Calpulli Tonalehqueh with guest dancers from California and Mexico. Saturday’s ceremony begins with a community procession from the Park’s main entrance to the ceremonial space. All are welcome to join.
ARTS & CRAFT MARKET
Shop from 40+ curated Native artists and entrepreneurs offering unique, handcrafted arts and crafts.
FOOD COURT
Enjoy 10+ food vendors serving traditional Mexican and international favorites, including tacos, barbacoa, huaraches, aguas frescas, desserts, and more.
LIVE PROGRAM
Enjoy live music, Ballet Folklórico, Danza Azteca, DJs, and more throughout the weekend.
LOWRIDER EXHIBIT
Explore 40+ custom classic lowriders, co-hosted by Blvd Kings and Viejitos car clubs.
TRUNK OR TREAT
Saturday: 2–5 PM
Bring the kids for safe, family-friendly fun hosted by Blvd Kings and Viejitos car clubs.
FACE PAINTERS
Celebrate Día de Muertos with professional face painting and a variety of designs to choose from
KIDS ACTIVITIES
Saturday: 2–6 PM | Sunday: 10 AM–4 PM
Enjoy sugar skull decorating, clay skull projects, flower crowns, paper cempoalxochitl, jewelry making, jump houses, and more.
COMMUNITY ALTARES
Discover traditional altares and ofrendas throughout the Park, including the main altar at the Park Tower and displays at historic buildings.
FIRE HOUSE ART EXHIBIT
Saturday: 2–8 PM | Sunday: 10 AM–6 PM
Explore an exhibition featuring various artists on the Fire House’s first floor, co-hosted and curated by One Culture.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Explore the Park and capture photos with art installations throughout the grounds.
LIVE PAINTERS
Meet local artists creating Muertos-themed artwork outside the Fire House. Co-hosted and curated by One Culture.
HISTORY PARK HISTORIC BUILDINGS
Saturday: 2–6 PM | Sunday: 12–4 PM
Explore 20+ historic buildings with on-site guides.
DIA DE MUERTOS
DAY OF THE DEAD
FAQ'S
WHAT IS DIA DE MUERTOS?
Dia de Los Muertos is a celebration of life.
The celebration originated in central and southern Mexico and dates back 3,000 years, during the time of the Aztecs.
Those who celebrate it believe that at midnight on October 31st, the souls of all deceased children come down from heaven and reunite with their families on November 1, and the souls of deceased adults come visit on November 2nd. The festivities continue in the cemetery, where families bring picnics, play music and sometimes even spend the night as a way to celebrate the lives of those who are no longer on this earth.
IS THERE AN ADMISSION COST?
No. Admission is FREE.
WILL THERE BE PARKING?
You can park in the small, dedicated lot directly at the main entrance located at 635 Phelan Avenue, or in the larger Kelley Park parking lot at the end of Phelan Avenue, which is just a short walk to the park for a $6 fee.
Overflow parking is available at the San José State South Campus Garage at 10th and Alma. A $6 daily parking fee may also apply.
HOW CAN WE USE PUBLIC TRANSIT TO ARRIVE?
To reach History Park by public transit, take VTA Bus Route 73.
Exit at Senter Rd. & Phelan Ave., then walk approximately five minutes to the park entrance.
If traveling into San Jose via Caltrain, ACE, or Amtrak, transfer to VTA Route 73 at the Downtown San Jose transit hub.
HOW TO PREPARE / WHAT TO BRING
There are public benches and seating throughout the park. You are also welcome to bring your own folding chairs.
CAN YOU ATTEND IF YOU ARE NOT MEXICAN?
Yes. Día de Muertos is open to everyone.
We welcome all members of the community to learn about the ancient traditions of Mexico while enjoying cultural dancers, music, food, and art.
ARE DOGS ALLOWED AT THE PARK?
Yes. Dogs are welcome at History Park but must remain on a leash at all times.
WILL ALCOHOL BE SERVED?
No. This is an alcohol-free and drug-free event that provides a safe and welcoming space for all families.