Tickets on Sale for the 7th Annual Day of the Dead River Parade
New experiences, including a 5K and guided GO RIO cruise, offer a more enhanced experience during Day of the Dead Weekend
SAN ANTONIO, TX (September 12, 2025)—Tickets to experience one of the nation’s most unique and vibrant celebrations are now on sale. The Seventh Annual Day of the Dead River Parade will take place on Friday, October 24, at 7:00 PM on the San Antonio River Walk, with a special program featured at the Arneson Theatre.
Each year, thousands of spectators line the riverbanks to enjoy the cultural river parade that brings the San Antonio River to life as a flotilla of colorful, decorated barges adorned with calaveras, alebrijes, catrinas and catrins drift through downtown, honoring a tradition deeply rooted within the San Antonio community. Ticketed seating is available throughout the River Walk, including the Arneson Theatre.
In its second year, Tradition Trail offers River Walk visitors the opportunity to serenely stroll along the River Walk while enjoying creatively designed alebrije and calavera sculptures that are sporadically placed among lush gardens lining the riverbanks. Alebrijes are vibrantly colored artworks that represent mythic creatures believed to serve as spiritual guides for loved ones who have passed away. Tradition Trail is a free experience on the River Walk. Information about the alebrijes and calaveras and their connection to Día de los Muertos can be found by scanning the QR codes located on the sculptures.
“Each year, the Day of the Dead River Parade grows as a signature cultural event, bringing together locals and visitors to honor loved ones while experiencing the artistry and traditions of Día de los Muertos in a uniquely San Antonio way,” said Mario Bass, President and CEO of Visit San Antonio. “This year is extra special as we bring forth new experiences that enhance the significance of this cultural tradition.”
New Experiences
Calaverita Run 5K and Family Walk – Participants can lace up and dress out for a spirited remembrance 5K run and walk on the San Antonio River Walk, Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 7 PM. This family-friendly event blends health and culture as participants carry a loved one's legacy during a challenge of endurance. Embracing the name of the witty, rhyming poem, that is a beloved Mexican tradition during Día de los Muertos, Calaverita, the run and walk will feature beautifully crafted altars, lively music and face painting as Day of the Dead decorated river barges float along the route. The Calaverita Run 5k and Family Walk takes off at La Gloria at Pearl. Participants can register at thesanantonioriverwalk.com/CalaveritaRun5K.
Rio de la Vida—Tradition Trail Tour – In collaboration with Visit San Antonio, GO RIO Cruises is taking guests on a guided journey through the history, symbolism and cultural significance of Día de los Muertos in the river cruise version of Tradition Trail. Rio de la Vida—Tradition Trail Tour is a narrated boat cruise along the San Antonio River in Downtown San Antonio. Passengers will encounter whimsical alebrijes installed along the River Walk, gaining insight into these mystical creatures and their role in the celebration. This seasonal cruise will run every Tuesday and Sunday from Oct. 5 to Nov. 5. Tickets can be purchased at goriocruises.com.
“Rio De La Vida—Tradition Trail Tour is more than a cruise, it’s a moving gallery of culture and imagination,” said Carlton Quick, Director of Operations of GO RIO River Cruises. “Our narration explores the history, traditions and significance of alebrijes while guests enjoy the glow of the River Walk. It’s a beautiful way to learn, sip and spot these extraordinary works up close.”
For more information, reserved seating ticket purchases and Calaverita Run 5K and Family Walk registration, go to thesanantonioriverwalk.com.