Museum of Sonoma County Opened Annual Día Exhibition
The 30th annual Día de los Muertos exhibition has launched, honoring loved ones with local art.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Cultural
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The Museum of Sonoma County has opened its 30th annual Día de los Muertos exhibition in Santa Rosa. This long-running event features community altars and works from local and Latino artists.
Why it matters
The exhibition serves to honor loved ones who have died while providing a dedicated space for community remembrance. It reflects a multi-decade commitment to cultural education and local heritage.
The Museum of Sonoma County has presented the exhibition annually since 1996, marking its 30th edition this year. Programming includes a workshop that drew on the 6th year of participation from artist Nathan Gomez.
The players
Museum of Sonoma County
This institution serves as the primary host and cultural organizer for the annual Día de los Muertos programming in Santa Rosa.
Maria de los Angeles
She is an artist who contributed to the exhibition programming by leading a mask-making workshop.
Nathan Gomez
He is a participating artist who is marking his 6th year of involvement with the museum's annual exhibition.
The details
Visitors can contribute to the community altar by leaving notes or obituaries to remember those who have passed. The museum programming also includes art activities, live performances, and community booths as part of the celebration.
Timeline
The museum has hosted the annual exhibition since 1996.
Artist Maria de los Angeles led a mask-making workshop on Sept. 6, 2026.
A free block party is scheduled for Oct. 10, 2026.
Traditional observances for Día de los Muertos occur on Nov. 1-2.
The exhibition is set to conclude on Nov. 29, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This event reflects a broader trend of regional museums institutionalizing cultural celebrations to foster community engagement. It mirrors the growth of long-running holiday exhibitions that bridge the gap between traditional heritage and contemporary local art.
Residents can visit the museum in Santa Rosa through Nov. 29 to view the art and contribute to the community altar. Families can attend the free block party on Oct. 10 to participate in live performances and art activities.
The takeaway
The exhibition offers a meaningful way for community members to engage with the traditions of Día de los Muertos through local art. Attendees are encouraged to bring obituaries or written memories to participate in the collaborative community altar.
Further reading
Learn more about local cultural events on the Santa Rosa Cultural page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Santa Rosa Press Democrat.
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