Festival History

It takes the whole community

The festival began 26 years ago with a core group of community members in a neighborhood parking lot and
has grown every year since! Many of those same founding volunteers continue to dedicate their
time and energy to this free cultural event which is an experience of art in and of itself, where
thousands of people from all over the City of Los Angeles come to Canoga Park to celebrate and
enjoy this time-honored tradition.

Intention

The intention of the event is to create a FREE family-centric cultural ARTS festival for local
residents and visitors to Historic Main Street Canoga Park.
We aim to curate a festive experience that honors the authentic values of this holiday through
artistic engagement including live performances and installations, educational opportunities like
arts & crafts activities for kids, the car show (a multi-generational exhibit) and our beloved
Altars tent, which is a space for the community honor their ancestors.

Festival Areas

Altars/ Ofrendas

The heart of the festival, this area holds space for the greater community to create altars for their loved ones and relatives.

Car Show

West End (off Topanga Canyon Blvd.) This treasured element of the festival not only demonstrates Chicano history, but also celebrates the distinguished achievements of Canoga Park’s contributions to lowrider culture that has been instrumental in shaping culture throughout San Fernando Valley and beyond.

Chalk Art

Local artists, teachers and residents create chalk art on site in "La Placita." Children are encouraged to develop their own chalk artistry on the street in the Family Zone, hosted by the West Valley Boys & Girls Club.

Main Stage

Throughout the day, dozens of local musicians and dancers perform on the main stage including Ballet Folklorico, Latin Jazz, Rock en español, The Gr818ers and more!

Family Zone

Visit the east end of the festival (near Canoga Ave.) for art activities at the C.S.U.N. Pavilion with Canoga Park's own Bridge to the Future Scholars! Try chalk art with the Boys & Girls Club, plus break dancing workshops with The Gr818ers!

Come dressed up!

We encourage attendees to come in their most festive and creative attire to celebrate Día de los Muertos (please no Halloween costumes). Visit the main stage at 1pm for "La Catrina" contest!

Key Outcomes

Cultural Experience
Holistic Public Space
Activate Volunteerism
Community Collaboration
Artistic Expression