36 San Diego's Dia de los Muertos One of the premier events in Old Town is San Diego’s Dia de Los Muertos. In its eleventh year, this authentic cultural cel- ebration is one of the best events of its kind in California. San Diego's Day of the Dead is designed to celebrate the history, culture, and heritage of the holiday. A celebration of life that begins the weekend closest to the observed days Novenber 1st and 2nd, the actual holidays. Most businesses and shops create traditional altars offering a unique free tour throughout the area. Entertainment can be found at various locations. Activities for all ages from sugar skull decoration to face painting, music dancing and more can be found in the Old Town State Historic Park! The celebration culminates with the traditional procession to the historic El Campo Santo cemetery on the 2nd of November. Fiesta Cinco de Mayo Now in its 37th year, this event is the largest celebration of it's kind in South- ern California. Two days of entertain- ment usually held on the weekend closest to the actual date of May 5th. Stagecoach Days For four Saturdays in July and August, the Park celebrates San Diego in the 1860s. The afternoon is filled with activi- ties that reflect life in early San Diego and celebrates the West on the move. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, with the support of the Boosters of Old. Latin American Festival For over 27 years the Latin American Festival in late August and the Santa Fe Market in September have been favorites in Old Town. These two events organized by Diane Powers of Bazaar de Mundo, are more reminiscent of the interiors of Mexico and Guatemala. Native artists from Latin America travel to the San Diego each year to bring their artwork to the festival. Folklorico Competition On Saturday and Sunday in May as a part of the Cinco de Mayo celebration the Folorico Competition is held in the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. This event has grown each year to become one of the largest and most culturally signifi- cant events during the year. Participants come from all over California and Baja to participate. Toseemoreabouteventsorgetadditionalinformationgoto:OTSDGuide.com EVENTS