Celebrate Día de los Muertos (“Day of the Dead”) at Market Square on October 26 and 27, enjoy the Day of the Dead San Antonio River Parade and Festival on the River Walk and at La Villita on October 25-27 and visit Día de los Muertos at Hemisfair on October 26 and 27. While enjoying La Villita and Market Square events, don’t forget to shop inside their stores for one-of-a-kind treasures.
Día de los Muertos is a centuries-old tradition celebrating departed ones’ time. The weekend celebrations bring together traditional art and culture and unique shopping and dining experiences.
La Villita Events (418 Villita Street)
Day of the Dead San Antonio River Parade and Festival
River Parade: Friday, October 25, 7 p.m.; ticketed event
Festival and community activations: Friday, October 25 – Sunday, October 27; see website for complete schedule
All are invited to the San Antonio River Walk for the Day of the Dead River Parade on Friday, October 25. See elaborately decorated floats with altars, catrinas, and costumed riders, all celebrating life and loved ones. The festivities continue Friday through Sunday at La Villita with music, food, and free family fun honoring Day of the Dead traditions. See the world’s second-largest “Calavera Catrina,” 20 vibrant alebrije spirit animals and ten giant hand-painted calaveras spread throughout La Villita. For more information and a full schedule of events, visit the Day of the Dead San Antonio website.
Market Square Events (514 W. Commerce Street)
Cultural Celebration: Día de los Muertos
Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; free
A vibrant celebration of Día de los Muertos, honoring the rich traditions of this special Mexican holiday. Taking place over two days, this event will feature cultural activities, traditional altars, face painting, live music, and more. One of the highlights will be the Las Monas Cultural Dance Procession, a mesmerizing display of dance and storytelling that will take place from 1 to 2 p.m. This event is open to all ages and is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage and community spirit that Día de los Muertos represents. For more information, visit the Market Square website.
Self-Guided Día de los Muertos Altar Tour
Now through November 3, every day 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; free
Take a self-guided Día de los Muertos ofrendas (altars) tour at Historic Market Square. The ofrendas show gratitude, celebrate memories, and highlight the best and the brightest of departed loved ones’ time on earth. Learn more about Día de los Muertos by visiting uniquely themed altars throughout Historic Market Square. For more details and an altar map, visit the Market Square Facebook page.
Día de los Muertos at Hemisfair (630 Nueva Street)
Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27; see event website for full schedule; free
Recognized by National Geographic as one of ‘America’s Top 7 Fall Festivals’, Día de los Muertos brings back its unique mix of community altars, live music, art vendors, and workshops in a free, family-friendly, two-day event. Popularly known as Muertos Fest, this beloved San Antonio event is one of the most significant Day of the Dead celebrations in the United States. For more information, visit the event website.
