Exploring Hollywood Forever Cemetery

No Hollywood tour is complete without visiting the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetery. In addition to being the final resting place for countless legends of the stage and screen, the cemetery grounds host many cultural events right in the heart of Los Angeles. Whether you want to rock out with a concert or peacefully stroll through the manicured grounds, this is a must-see spot on any Los Angeles itinerary. Here's what you need to know to plan a visit.

About the Cemetery

Located at 6000 Monica Boulevard in Los Angeles, the 62-acre Hollywood Forever Cemetery was founded in 1899. The cemetery spanned over 100 acres before its original owners sold several tracts to Paramount Pictures in the 1920s. The list of notable celebrities laid to rest here includes Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, Cecil B. DeMille, Estelle Getty, Bugsy Siegel, Jayne Mansfield, Rudolph Valentino, Anton Yelchin, Hattie McDaniel, Douglas Fairbanks, Johnny Ramone, Dee Dee Ramone, Chris Cornell, and Scott Weiland. The cemetery has been listed on the National Register of Historic Sites since 1999.

How to Visit the Cemetery

Guests who wish to explore the cemetery grounds are free to do so. Pop into the cemetery's flower shop for a detailed map or guidebook. You can also attend one of the many events on the cemetery grounds yearly.

Film Screenings

Saturday movie screenings have been taking place on the cemetery lawn since 2000. Hosted by Cinespia, ticketed movie screenings take place under the stars on Fairbanks Lawn. Attendees are free to pack their food, wine, and beer. Food is also available for purchase. During this event, a DJ plays music during sunset in preparation for the movie. If you plan to attend a movie screening, it's recommended that you bring a blanket to sit on because the ground can get dewy.

Concerts

The cemetery is also a concert venue. Major names performed here include Lana Del Rey, the Flaming Lips, Bon Iver, and Gary Numan. Concerts take place regularly throughout the week. Simply check the cemetery's event schedule to book a ticket coinciding with your stay in Los Angeles.

Cultural Events

Finally, several major cultural events take place on the cemetery grounds throughout the year. The most notable is the annual Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festival, which takes place on the last Saturday before All Souls Day. The event features costumed attendees, food vendors around Los Angeles, local art and craft vendors, and much more!

Explore Hollywood Lore and History During Your Los Angeles Visit

The Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a quintessential landmark for anyone who is fascinated with Hollywood history. The cemetery grounds offer a peaceful, contemplative setting where visitors can pay respects to legends spanning from the earliest days of celebrity culture up through the modern day. However, this spot is just the beginning when it comes to exploring Hollywoods historic landmarks. Be sure to stay in a spot that allows you to cover everything from the Hollywood Sign to the Hollywood Walk of Fame with ease!