The Many Traditions of Día de los Muertos
The Largest Day of the Dead Celebrations in the Country are in San Antonio
Welcome to San Antonio, home to the grandest Día de Muertos celebrations in the entire United States. Whether you're a newcomer to the enchanting tradition of "Day of the Dead" or a seasoned veteran who has joyously partaken in its festivities for countless years, our city warmly invites you to join in commemorating this extraordinary celebration of life.
@visitsanantonio Alebrijes are the Spirit Guides to our loved ones who’ve passed and so much more ✨❤️ You can catch the display all weekend long at La Villita’s Day of the Dead Celebration! #visitsanantonio #visitsanantoniomx #dayofthedead #diadelosmuertos #diademuertos #alebrijes #lavillitaartsvillage #sanantoniotx #sanantonioevents ♬ sonido original - animadas
what is día de los muertos?
Also known as “Day of the Dead,” Día de Muertos is a tradition-filled day during which families remember the departed and share memories of loved ones. To celebrate their lives, friends and family participate in a variety of activities, including lively processions and parades, traditional dress, and altar building.
Altars
Altars also referred to as “ofrendas” in Spanish, are arrangments honoring loved ones who have passed on. Though there are traditional items that are commonly placed on ofrendas, every ofrenda is special in its way and often includes personalized elements that are unique to the individual(s) being honored.
Sugar skulls, tamales, Pan de Muerto, and more can all be found on Día de Muertos altars. Learn More about Day of the Dead altars and ofrendas here.
Alebrijes
Alebrijes are vibrant Mexican folk art sculptures featuring intricate patterns and details. They depict a mix of animals, people, objects, and fantastical creatures, blending elements from various sources and the artist’s imagination. Often considered spirits, alebrijes are believed to guide, protect, and accompany individuals throughout their lives.
Look for alebrijes at the many Dia de los Muertos events and festivities in San Antonio! You can learn more about Alebrijes here.
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.
El Camino de San Antonio MissionsDía de los Muertos: Symbols and Meanings
Day of the Dead altars, or “ofrendas,” are rich in symbolism, honoring deceased loved ones and…
San Antonio is Home to the Biggest Day of the Dead Celebrations in the Country
San Antonio offers unique, lively, and even moving Dia de los Muertos experiences, blending ancient traditions with modern festivities. Whether you’re participating in a community altar-making workshop, watching a vibrant parade, or enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine, San Antonio is the ultimate destination to honor and celebrate the Day of the Dead.
Mark your calendar and plan your visit to San Antonio this fall for an unforgettable Dia de los Muertos celebration. Join us in honoring this rich cultural tradition and creating memories that will last a lifetime. For more information on events and activities, visit our event calendar.
Must-Attend Events
Día de los Muertos at the Missions
October 12-November 15, 2024
El Camino de San Antonio Missions invites you to Día de los Muertos at the Missions! The Día de los Muertos ofrendas featured are from the Missions of San Antonio parish communities. Each Mission Church parish community…
Day of the Dead River Parade
October 25, 2024
Enjoy decorated river barges paying homage to this special tradition. Find a restaurant along the River Walk and book your reservation to view the parade while dining!
Day of the Dead Festival at La Villita
October 25-27, 2024
Get ready for a spectacular celebration! From October 25-27, San Antonio will come alive with the vibrant 6th Annual Day of the Dead Festival at La Villita.
Dia de los Muertos at Hemisfair / MuertosFest
October 26-27, 2024
Outdoor festivities, live music, and vibrant celebrations, Día de los Muertos at Hemisfair is held in downtown San Antonio at Hemisfair. National Geographic once named this one of the best fall festivals in the country!
Market Square Día de los Muertos
October 26-27, 2024
Enjoy a variety of activities for all ages, including traditional altars, face painting, live music, and, of course, delicious food. Whether you’re a local or visiting San Antonio, this celebration offers something…
Día de los Muertos at Esperanza Peace & Justice Center
November 1, 2024
Honor ancestors with community altars, live music, face painting, and delicious food. See workshops, literary readings, and a lively procession through the neighborhood. Be ready to dance!
"Altares y Ofrendas" at Centro Cultural Aztlan
November 2-7, 2024
One of the city's longest-standing Dia de los Muertos celebrations. Experience Dia de los Muertos' artistic, cultural, and religious details and see how this pre-Colombian Mexican tradition views death as a neutral part…
Experience the Many Traditions of Day of the Dead San Antonio is known for its rich Hispanic heritage, so it’s no surprise that the city hosts some of the most vibrant and authentic Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations in the country.
@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