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Celebrating Día de los Muertos in San Antonio

From free movies to festivals, here’s how to spend the Day of the Dead.

Pink, purple, yellow, and blue hued statue with a blue sky.

See the tallest Catrina statue in the US at the La Villita Historic Village.

Photo by SATXtoday team

There are just a few celebrations throughout the year that have unquestionably become staple traditions for San Antonians — like Fiesta and Día de los Muertos.

Also known as Day of the Dead, this holiday is celebrated in remembrance of the departed not only in Mexico, but in many parts of South America as well.

The Alamo City is no exception, and is gearing up for one of the largest celebrations yet.

Excited to eat all the pan de muerto + visit a public ofrenda or two? Check out these Día de los Muertos events happening around the city.

Altares + Exhibitions

  • Altares y Ofrendas | Saturday, Nov. 2-Thursday, Nov. 7 | 12-6 p.m. | Centro Cultural Aztlan | Free | View altars celebrating loved ones who have passed on featuring marigolds, photographs, food, and other offerings.
  • Día de los Muertos Procession and Catrin & Catrina Contest | Saturday, Nov. 2 | 5-9 p.m. | Historic Pearl | Free | Visit the annual community altar created by local artists and participate in a costume contest while listening to live music.
Ofrenda Historic Pearl San antonio

See ofrendas like this one of Emma Koehler at the Pearl’s Dia de los Muertos festivities.

Photo by the Historic Pearl

For the kiddos

  • Día Doe Los Muertos | Friday, Nov. 1-Saturday, Nov. 2 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | $27+ | Take a trip to the zoo for themed activities, a pet altar, and bring a photo of a passed on furry friend to be featured on the altar.
  • “The Book of Life” | Saturday, Nov. 2 | 6-10 p.m. | Mission Marquee Plaza | Cost of purchase | See the animated story of La Muerte, Xibalba, and a love triangle.
SATXtoday: Dia de los Muertos

The Alamo City comes alive at night with vibrant floats during the Day of the Dead River Parade.

Photo by City of San Antonio

Festivals

  • Day of the Dead River Parade | Friday, Oct. 25 | San Antonio River Walk | $17+ | See decorated floats with altars, catrinas, and costumed riders all celebrating life + loved ones.
  • Muertos Fest | Saturday, Oct. 26-Sunday, Oct. 27 | Times vary | Hemisfair | Free | Enjoy a day of dancing, art, a drum + puppet procession, and the largest altar exhibition in the 210.
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