Celebrate Día de los Muertos in San Antonio
Discover magic. And, experience the unforgettable spectacle of San Antonio’s annual Día de los Muertos celebrations. Also known as “the Day of the Dead”, Día de los Muertos is the tradition of celebrating and sharing memories of loved ones who have passed.
Showcasing its rich heritage, the city celebrates with more than 20 unique events during October and November. That’s more celebrations than any other city in America! From intimate gatherings with traditional dressed altars, to multiple-day festivals, to live music and festive processions that run through downtown, there’s something for everyone. Join us. And, celebrate the rich culture of these historic traditions.
What is Día de los Muertos?
Also known as “the Day of the Dead”, Día de los Muertos is a tradition-filled day during which families remember the departed and share memories of loved ones. To celebrate their lives, they participate in a variety of activities including lively processions and parades, and traditional dress and altar building.
What are all the items on the altars?
Sugar skulls, tamales, Pan de Muerto and more can all be found on Día de los Muertos altars. Learn More about Day of the Dead altars here.
What are the Catrines & Catrinas?
Skeleton figures, especially elegantly dressed men (catrines) and women (catrinas), remind festival-goers that we are all equal in death.
Experience this traditional celebration like you never have before. Kick off the celebrations October 26 and 27 at the 7th Annual Día de los Muertos, now at Hemisfair, featuring altars, a processional, live music and more. Then, on November 1, enjoy a unique river parade, Catrinas on the River. During the parade be entertained by La Danza de las Mojigangas in the Arneson River Theatre while Day of the Dead dancers, mariachis and mojigangas or giant dancing puppet figures perform. Continue the celebration of life at Día de los Muertos Pearl, with live music, traditional altars created by local and regional artists and more.
On November 2-3, join in the festivities during Day of the Dead San Antonio in La Villita Historic Arts Village. Experience the picturesque Altar de Muertos, engage with tradition and get your face painted with the traditional calavera design. Children will enjoy hands-on activities in Las Catrinas Plaza including, sugar skull decorating, piñata smashing and a puppet show. Shop in a traditional Mercado Artesanal. Feed your body and your soul with cuisine from top Mexican chefs in the Barrio Gastronómico. Then work off the calories with the Move Your Bones workout or the Running for Life 5k.
The celebration continues across the city. Walk along Houston St. downtown and the River Walk and admire the colorful skull sculptures. Enjoy special exhibitions including, Mythical Alebrijes at The Witte Museum and Almas Creativas at the Briscoe Western Art Museum.
Experience Day of the Dead at this two-day, family-friendly event at Hemisfair.
Join in more than 20 events celebrating the memory of loved ones.
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