San Antonio is home to the biggest Día de los Muertos celebration in the country! In the fall, the city comes alive with vibrant ofrendas (altars) adorned with marigolds, candles, photos, and favorite foods, all in honor of loved ones who have passed.
Whether you’re a local or visiting for the celebrations, these must-see altars offer a meaningful way to connect with the spirit of Día de los Muertos. We’ve compiled a list of places and events where you can discover these stunning displays and explore the beauty of this cultural experience:
La Villita Altars
La Villita, one of San Antonio’s oldest neighborhoods, transforms into a vibrant hub of Day of the Dead celebrations each year. The altars here are a sight to behold, often featuring intricate designs and personal touches that reflect the stories of those being honored.
Wander through the cobblestone streets, and you’ll immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of these beautiful ofrendas.
BONUS: Make sure to stop and marvel at the Alebrijes!
@visitsanantonio Did you know that San Antonio has become one of the nation’s top destinations to celebrate + commemorate the Día de Muertos? Here’s a recap of one of the many beloved events we have here — @muertosfest ❤️ #VisitSanAntonio #travler #dayofthedead #diademuertos #diadelosmuertos #sanantoniotx #sanantoniotiktok ♬ Recuérdame (Reencuentro) - Luis Ángel Gómez Jaramillo & Rocío Garcel
Muertos Fest
For two days, Muertos Fest takes over Hemisfair. Stop by October 26-27, 2024, to marvel at over 80 altars created by the community. Muertos Fest is a free event, and National Geographic even named it one of America’s Top Seven Fall Festivals.
Altars at Pearl
Pearl, a trendy spot known for its culinary delights and boutique shopping, also embraces the Day of the Dead spirit.
The altar here is a stunning blend of traditional and modern elements, often crafted by local artists. With its backdrop of the historic Pearl Brewery, this altar is both a visual and emotional feast, making it a must-see for anyone in the area.
Padre Margil Pilgrimage Center
Discover the special ofrendas hosted by the Mission Communities at the Padre Margil Pilgrimage Center. Each mission community contributes an altar, making this a meaningful experience for anyone interested in the deep roots of Día de los Muertos.
BONUS: A very special thank you to El Camino de San Antonio Missions for sharing information about the symbols and meanings placed on altars here.
Day of the Dead altars, or “ofrendas,” are rich in symbolism, honoring deceased loved ones and celebrating their lives. El Camino de San Antonio Missions invites you to learn more about the symbols and meanings behind the items you can find on these altars.
Hotel Emma Altar
Inside Hotel Emma, discover a stunning altar dedicated to Emma Koehler. This tribute celebrates her legacy as the successful leader of the brewery from 1914 to 1942. Learn more about this tribute here.
Historic Market Square Altars
Explore the ofrendas at Historic Market Square with a self-guided tour, where each altar honors the memories and legacies of loved ones who have passed. Plus, don’t miss the annual celebration at Market Square, featuring cultural activities, traditional altars, face painting, live music, and the mesmerizing “Las Monas Cultural Dance Procession.”
Altares y Ofrendas at Centro Centro Cultural Aztlan
Centro Cultural Aztlan celebrates Día de los Muertos with its annual Altares y Ofrendas event. This cultural hub showcases traditional altars that honor the deceased while also celebrating the vibrant community that keeps these traditions alive. Visit their website for more details on this year’s event.
Muertos Mercado
Join us for a one-day-only event on October 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Experience a vibrant showcase of altars and artwork by local artists, and enjoy live performances by local dance groups, all celebrating the rich traditions of this beautiful event.
Ruby City
San Antonio artist Audrya Flores will create a Día de los Muertos altar at Ruby City’s Plaza, using natural elements to craft an ephemeral sculpture. Known for her mixed media works that explore trauma, healing, and identity, Flores draws inspiration from her Tejana roots and the natural world. Join Ruby City on November 1, 2024, from 4-6 PM for a reception celebrating her work. No RSVP is required.
San Antonio Zoo
The San Antonio Zoo invites the community to celebrate Día de los Muertos with a special altar dedicated to honoring our beloved animal companions, both past and present. Taking place on November 1st and 2nd, this ofrenda will pay tribute to cherished pets and the animal residents of the zoo who have touched our lives. Guests are encouraged to bring a framed photo of their pet to place on the altar, or create one on-site with the zoo’s free photo printing and DIY frame decoration station.
Join us to embrace culture, honor traditions, and revel in the joy of life with our vibrant Dia de los Muertos parades, events, and so much more!
Community Ofrenda at Briscoe Western Art Museum
The Briscoe Western Art Museum honors those who have passed with a community Ofrenda. The museum's staff and the community are invited to bring photos, moments, and offerings to contribute to the community Ofrenda, which will be on view from October 3 to November 4, 2024.
InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk
Join us in honoring the legendary Joan Crawford with a Día de los Muertos ofrenda at the InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk. A San Antonio native and Hollywood icon, Joan shattered barriers and defined the role of the Hollywood diva. Our hotel’s design pays tribute to her lasting legacy, and we celebrate her unforgettable impact on film and culture. Raise a glass with us as we remember this silver screen legend.