Olvera Street, El Pueblo De Los Angeles Historical Monument

San Diego has Little Italy. Los Angeles has “Little Mexico,” Olvera Street, located in El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument on the site of L.A.’s original birthplace. Colorful celebrations and fiestas happen here year-round.

Día de los Muertos takes place this year from October 25th - November 1st, with lots of macabre sugar skulls, decorated altars, exhibits and religious processions. On December 4th, the plaza and Christmas tree are illuminated, followed by free refreshments and entertainment. December 11th and 12th the Virgen De Guadalupe is honored.

As a child, my favorite season was Christmas, when my family went to see Las Posadas, a nine-night presentation of the journey to Bethlehem. A candlelight procession follows Mary and Joseph, who wander from door to door, begging for shelter. Each evening, they’re rejected by every innkeeper, until finally a kind soul offers them refuge. Afterwards, ballet folklorico and piñata-breaking celebrations take place.

This year, Las Posadas will be celebrated 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. December 16th - 24th, with singing, processions, dancing and piñata breaking for the children. For information, call (213) 978-3231.