UPDATE: San Antonio is about to come alive with Día de los Muertos celebrations this weekend from October 25 to 26, 2023. The historic Market Square is set to host a vibrant two-day festival, inviting both locals and visitors to honor the departed through rich cultural traditions.
Festivities kick off with a lively cultural celebration at Market Square, featuring traditional altars, dance processions, and live music. Attendees can even get their faces painted as they enjoy the festivities. A highlight of the event is the Las Monas Cultural Dance Procession, showcasing ancestral stories in motion, taking place both days from 1 to 2 p.m.
But the celebration doesn’t stop there. La Villita will also host a three-day extravaganza from October 24 to 26, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The highly anticipated Day of the Dead San Antonio River Parade and Festival promises a spectacular show with altar-adorned floats. Visitors will marvel at the second largest Calavera Catrina and discover a menagerie of 20 alebrije spirit-animals and 10 giant calaveras throughout the village.
Given the expected hustle and bustle in downtown San Antonio, especially with concurrent events like the Muertos Fest and the Paul McCartney concert, early arrival is strongly advised. To ease transportation woes, VIA Metropolitan Transit is offering free Park & Ride service to the Robert Thompson Transit Station near the Alamodome on October 25. Several pickup locations, including Crossroads Park & Ride and Brooks Transit Center, will help alleviate parking and traffic stresses.
For those wanting a deeper understanding of the Día de los Muertos customs, a self-guided Altar Tour is available daily until November 3. This tour offers an intimate look at ofrendas—altars that celebrate the lives of the departed with gratitude and color.
With so much happening, San Antonio’s Día de los Muertos festivities promise to be an unforgettable experience, blending joy and remembrance in a celebration that resonates with the community. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with cultural roots and honor loved ones.
