SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Museum will open a new path of Día de los Muertos altars through its permanent galleries during its 13th annual Fiesta on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
Called Sendero de las Almas Luminosas, or Path of the Luminous Souls, the display places altars within the museum’s signature exhibits, with each altar reflecting the theme of the gallery around it. Visitors will receive a map to navigate the installations.
Members of Self Help Graphics & Arts, the Boyle Heights cultural arts organization serving Chicana/o and Latinx artists, will create this year’s altars. A community altar will also invite visitors to honor loved ones who have died and remain on view through the exhibit’s closing date, November 15.
The Fiesta centers the Mexican Day of the Dead tradition through art, remembrance, music and shared celebration. Its new layout brings that observance into conversation with the museum’s exhibitions about California, rather than placing all of the altars in one separate room.
The October 10 program includes a ceremonial blessing by Maquilli Tonatiuh Aztec Dancers and performances by Las Hijas de Maria, Ballet Folklorico and Mariachi Bonitas de Dinorah Klingler. Mercado de los Muertos, or Market of the Dead, will feature handmade work by local artists and vendors.
Mayahuel will offer food and drinks for purchase. Family activities include sugar skull decorating workshops and crafts for children ages three and older. The supplied image guide notes that places in the sugar skull workshops are available to purchase.
Fiesta admission is $15 and must be purchased in advance, according to the museum’s announcement. Museum members receive free event admission and access to a members-only VIP lounge and terrace.
The California Museum is at 1020 O Street in Sacramento. Event information and advance tickets are available through the museum and Dia2026.eventbrite.com. The Fiesta takes place October 10; the altar experience continues beyond that evening through November 15.