Los Angeles is one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the world, and during Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15–Oct. 15), it comes alive with even more color, flavor, and soul.
From mariachi under the stars to museum exhibits that spotlight generations of Hispanic contributions, there’s no better place to celebrate the rich traditions and contemporary culture of the communities in L.A.
As the weather cools and the leaves begin to turn, fall brings more than pumpkin spice and Halloween prep. The city transforms into a vibrant celebration of Latino identity during Hispanic Heritage Month, and there’s no shortage of events to explore.
© Jorge VillalbaWhether you’re strolling through historic streets, taking in live music, or discovering hidden cultural gems, this season offers countless ways to experience Latin American heritage against the golden backdrop of an L.A. autumn.
Whether you’re a lifelong Angeleno or visiting for the first time, this is your guide to the most exciting events, can’t-miss performances, and meaningful cultural experiences happening all across the city this fall.
Cultural events and exhibits:
There’s something extra magical about walking Olvera Street in the fall. Celebrate with delicious food and traditional music.
- Mexican Independence / Fiestas Patrias: Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with Fiestas Patrias (Sept. 15–16) featuring traditional mariachi, folklórico dancers, artisan booths, food vendors, and historical exhibits. This event feels like a cultural block party and kicks off both HHM and the fall season in style.
- Walking Tours: The 'Las Angelitas del Pueblo' historic walking tours (Tues–Sat) offer a relaxed, fall-friendly activity where you can learn about the origins of L.A.’s Mexican roots while enjoying the mild weather.
© Nik WheelerMuseums and cultural institutions:
Fall is also the perfect time to spend an afternoon indoors exploring L.A.'s top museums, and many are spotlighting Hispanic culture during HHM.
- Natural History Museum of LA County: The 'Olvera Street' program, led by Gallery Interpreter Maya Morales, explores the street’s layered history, including the effects of romanticized myths on Indigenous and Mexican communities. A thoughtful, eye-opening experience especially fitting for the introspective mood of fall.
- LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes: A downtown gem year-round, LA Plaza offers immersive exhibits like 'Calle Principal: Mi México en Los Ángeles' and 'A Great Day in East L.A.'
© benedekLive music and fall concert vibes:
Fall evenings in L.A. are made for outdoor shows, cozy venues, and rich, rhythmic sounds. These concerts blend perfectly with the season’s chillier nights and festive spirit.
- La Santa Cecilia: The Grammy-winning band brings their blend of cumbia, rock, and bolero to the Luckman Fine Arts Complex (Sept. 13–14).
- Aida Cuevas: Mexico’s 'Queen of Ranchera' also performs at the Luckman, offering a deeply cultural, emotional experience that fits the season’s slower, more intimate mood.
- Alejandro Fernández: Catch his powerful ballads and regional classics live at the Kia Forum (Sept. 20). It’s one of fall’s biggest Latin music events.
- Latin Nights: From salsa under the stars to cumbia dance parties, local venues are hosting intimate concerts and DJ nights throughout the fall. Keep an eye on listings for acts like Sonido Gallo Negro and Los Hermanos Flores.
© JeremychanphotographyPrepare for Halloween and Día de los Muertos in Los Angeles:
- Plaza de la Raza Día de los Muertos Festival: Experience a free, family-friendly celebration of art, music, dance, and tradition at Plaza de la Raza, 3540 N. Mission Rd, Los Angeles, CA. The event is on November 1, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Enjoy art exhibitions, ofrendas by local artists, live performances, hands-on workshops, local food, and craft vendors. Guests are welcome to add photos or items of their loved ones to the main community altar, and there will be a beloved pet altar as well.
- San Pedro's 14th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival: Join the 14th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival in San Pedro, 398 West 6th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731. The event is on October 26, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Enjoy live entertainment, a beer garden, delicious foods, crafts for kids, an altar contest exhibition, and more. Visitors are encouraged to come dressed in Día de los Muertos-themed costumes and participate in the festivities. Free trolley rides will be available.
- DTLA Día de los Muertos Celebration: Experience a vibrant community celebration honoring life, memory, and cultural pride in Downtown LA. The event is on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Enjoy altars and large-scale installations, live music, Aztec dance performances, hands-on workshops (papel picado, face painting, sugar skulls), a vendor market featuring local artists and food, film screenings inside historic Broadway theaters, and a Mezcal + Beer Garden (21+).
© Chelsea Guglielmino- 24th Street Theatre's 20th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebración: Celebrate at the 24th Street Theatre, 1117 West 24th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90007. The event is on November 2, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Enjoy live music, dance performances, artisan crafts, food booths, face painting, altars, a Ferris wheel, and more. Admission is free.
- Haunted W Hollywood Rooftop Party: Celebrate Halloween with a glamorous rooftop party at the W Hollywood. Enjoy themed cocktails, a costume contest, and panoramic views of the city skyline. The event starts at 9:00 PM on October 31, 2025.
- Long Beach Rummy Club Halloween Bash: Join the Long Beach Rummy Club for a Halloween-themed gathering at Panera Bread, 2280 N Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90815. The event is on October 26, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Enjoy games, free Halloween candy, and a costume contest with a chance to win a special prize.
- Night of the Jack at King Gillette Ranch: For a family-friendly Halloween experience that combines artistry and autumn ambiance, head to King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas for Night of the Jack. This immersive event features a one-mile walking trail illuminated by thousands of hand-carved jack-o'-lanterns, creating a whimsical and spooky atmosphere.
© Night of the Jack at King Gillette Ranch
