Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a vibrant Mexican holiday celebrated in November, honoring the spirits of departed loved ones with joyful reunions filled with food, drink, and festivities. The Division of Equity, Justice, & Inclusive Excellence honors this rich tradition by leading an annual Día de los Muertos celebration that centers community, remembrance, and cultural appreciation.
This year, the celebration includes a community reception featuring a collaborative ofrenda created with the Office of Student Involvement (OSI) and Transfer, Returning, and Veteran Student Services (TRV), alongside campus-wide activities, creative workshops, and opportunities to share memories of loved ones.
Explore Caminos de Memoria Visit the Online Ofrenda
Collective Ofrenda & Reception
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Join EJIE for our annual Día de los Muertos Collective Ofrenda and Reception, a time to celebrate the lives, memories, and lasting impact of loved ones. Enjoy food, refreshments, activities, and meaningful opportunities to connect while honoring this cherished tradition. This year's reception will feature a collaborative community ofrenda created with OSI and TRV, along with a special performance by Mariachi Los Bobcats. Date: November 2, 2026 Time: 1–3 PM Location: TRV/Commuter Lounge All are welcome to stop by, enjoy refreshments, participate in activities, and spend time remembering those who have shaped our lives and communities. |
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Caminos de Memoria: A Día de los Muertos Campus Experience
Explore campus ofrendas through this self-guided experience celebrating remembrance, culture, and community. Visit five participating ofrendas, learn about the traditions and meaning behind them, and complete the Caminos de Memoria activity card along the way.
How to Participate
- Pick up your activity card. Cards will be available beginning October 26 at the EJIE office in Granite Pass, Room 169.
- Visit the five campus ofrendas. Read the Caminos de Memoria educational poster at each location and fill in the answers on your card.
- Bring your completed card to the reception. Stop by the November 2 reception at the TRV/Commuter Lounge to receive a goodie bag featuring a limited-edition Día de los Muertos sticker, while supplies last.
Ofrenda Locations & Viewing Hours
Use the locations and hours below to plan your route. Viewing hours may vary by location.
2. Office of Student Involvement (OSI) & TRV
Location: TRV/Commuter Lounge: Sentinel Rock RM 150
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 10 AM–8 PM; Friday, 10 AM–5 PM
4. UC Library
Location: KL 355
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7 AM–12 AM; Friday, 7 AM–6 PM; Saturday, 10 AM–6 PM; Sunday, 10 AM–12 AM
Remember: Complete all five prompts and bring your activity card to the November 2 reception to receive your goodie bag, while supplies last.
More Ways to Celebrate
Día de Muertos Ofrenda Decorating WorkshopCreate a meaningful tribute to a loved one at the Día de Muertos Ofrenda Decorating Workshop presented by OSI. Participants will decorate a picture frame, print a photo of a loved one, and add it to the community ofrenda. Enjoy pan dulce and champurrado while supplies last and learn more about Día de Muertos traditions! Date: October 26, 2026 Time: 12–4 PM Location: Sentinel Rock, Room 145 |
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Día de los Muertos Printmaking Workshop at La GaleríaLearn how to carve your own printmaking block to create frames and decorations for Día de los Muertos with La Galería. Get inspired by the artwork in the exhibition Permanent Collection: Chicano Prints and visit an ofrenda dedicated to artists and activists. All workshop materials will be provided. Date: October 29, 2026 Time: 6 PM - 8 PM Location: El Portal, Room 120 Limited to 24 participants. RSVP is required. |
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Participate in the Online Ofrenda!
Can't attend in person? You can still take part in the celebration by contributing to EJIE's Online Ofrenda. Share a photo and a remembrance of a loved one to honor their life, memory, and lasting impact.
Participants may also request to have their photo displayed in the physical Collective Ofrenda. Submissions to the Online Ofrenda are publicly displayed on the website. By submitting a photo and dedication, you consent to their public display.
In accordance with applicable federal and state law and University policy, the University of California does not discriminate or grant preference on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or other protected categories. All EJIE programs, events, and resources are open to individuals of all identities.
