Free Things to Do in Southern California This Fall
Dia de los Muertos Celebrations
- Dia de los Muertos, Mission Viejo: 4-8 pm, Friday, Nov. 1, Saddleback College Fine Arts Plaza, 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. Live entertainment, free tacos, and altar ofrendas.
- Day of the Dead celebration, Baldwin Hills: 4:30-7:30 pm, Friday, Nov. 1, Baldwin Hills Crenshaw mall, The Bridge, Level 2. Family movie "Coco", arts and crafts, and special store promos.
Nature and Outdoors
- UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden, Westwood: 10 am, Saturday, Nov. 2. Drop-in garden tour, explore the 7.5-acre living museum with plants from around the world.
- Trail Tips for Beginners, Newport Beach: 9-11:30 am, Tuesday, Nov. 5, Buck Gully Reserve, Orange County. Hike and learn about gear, trail etiquette, and more.
Cultural Events
- Dia de los Muertos Festival, Santa Ana: 11 am-3 pm, Saturday, Nov. 2, Fairhaven Memorial Park, 1702 Fairhaven Avenue, Santa Ana. Live entertainment, building a traditional altar, folkloric dancing, and food available for purchase.
- Flavors of Fall, Redlands: 3-5 pm, Nov. 8, Citrus Plaza, 27320 W Lugonia Avenue, Redlands. Crafts, photo opportunities, and sample tastings.
Performing Arts
- Movie Double Feature, Los Angeles: 2-6:30 pm, Sunday, Nov. 3, Wilshire Ebell Theatre, 743 S. Lucerne Boulevard, Los Angeles. "The Addams Family" and "Death Becomes Her" with tours of the historic building and trick-or-treating.
- Classical Guitar and Jazz, Westchester: 7 pm, Saturday, Nov. 16, Loyola Marymount University’s Murphy Recital Hall, 1955 Ignatian Circle, Los Angeles. 90-minute concert by the university’s Guitar and Jazz Ensembles.
Holidays and Celebrations
- Santa’s Arrival and Holiday Tree Lighting, Temecula: 5-7 pm, Saturday, Nov. 9, The Promenade Temecula-Plaza, 40820 Winchester Road, Temecula. Live music and the arrival of Santa.
- Queen Mary, Long Beach: Tuesday, Nov. 11. Free admission for veterans and their families, live entertainment, and activities.
Television and Film
- "Dancing with the Stars" Taping, Los Angeles: Tuesday, Nov. 12, 19, or 26. Apply in advance online for tickets, minimum age 12.
Conclusion
This fall, enjoy a variety of free activities in Southern California, from Dia de los Muertos celebrations to nature and outdoor events, cultural festivals, and performing arts performances. Whether you’re looking for something spooky or just want to get out and have fun, there’s something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is Dia de los Muertos?
A: Dia de los Muertos is a traditional Mexican holiday honoring the deceased, celebrated with altars, traditional foods, and live music. - Q: Is there a cost associated with these events?
A: No, most of these events are free, but some may require registration or RSVP in advance. - Q: Can I attend the "Dancing with the Stars" taping?
A: Yes, apply online in advance for tickets, minimum age 12.
