Event Details
In recognition of Día de Muertos, Jack London State Historic Park will present two ofrendas in the House of Happy Walls Museum from Oct. 4 to Nov. 6, 2026.
Dia de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a tradition that began in Mexican and other Latino cultures.An ofrenda, Spanish for ‘offering,’ is an altar created to honor and welcome the memory of those who have died.
The Legacy Ofrenda will honor writer and adventurer Jack London, Charmian London, and other individuals connected to the history of the property. Through photographs, reproductions, traditional elements of an ofrenda, and carefully selected symbolic objects, the installation will reflect Jack and Charmian's partnership, writing and travels, their life at Beauty Ranch, their connection to the land, and the legacies they left behind.
The Community Ofrenda will be a shared, participatory offering. Visitors, locals, volunteers, Board members, and employees can contribute a small photograph, written name, memory, drawing or message honoring someone who has passed away – including a beloved pet.
The installation will grow throughout October as more people participate.Materials will be available at the display for visitors who would like to join the celebration and contribute a name, memory or even a drawing of their loved one.