On Nov.2 the Mission District filled up with altars, candles and music for the annual Dia De Los Muertos celebration. Thousands of people marched in procession to be part of the ancient Mexican festivity that honors the dead and the continuity of life.

"What sets us apart from any other place in the country," said Rosa De Anda, who has been organizing the event in the city for the past 26 years, "is that this is not commercial, there's no sponsorship. It's a complete community effort."

People who lost their life for the war and the latest natural disasters were remembered, but the message was to embrace every moment and make it artistic and colorful.