San Antonio, Texas, officially launched its highly anticipated “Spirit Season” on October 24, 2025, with the opening of Muertos Fest at Hemisfair. This vibrant, culturally rich event marks the beginning of a six-week celebration, running through October 26, and is expected to draw over 100,000 attendees. The festival is a central part of San Antonio’s efforts to honor and celebrate the Mexican traditions surrounding Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), offering a wide array of activities that showcase the city’s deep connection to its Mexican heritage.
Muertos Fest spans across five stages, providing an eclectic mix of live music, dance, poetry readings, and an artisan market. The musical performances feature a range of genres that reflect the diverse cultural influences in San Antonio, from traditional mariachi and Latin jazz to contemporary pop and rock. Dance performances, rooted in Mexican folkloric traditions, offer a beautiful and energetic display of cultural pride. In addition to music and dance, poetry readings by local writers evoke the themes of remembrance and celebration of life and death that are integral to Día de los Muertos.
The festival also includes an artisan market, where attendees can browse and purchase handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, and other items reflecting Mexican culture and the Day of the Dead tradition. This market not only supports local artisans but also offers a unique opportunity for visitors to bring a piece of the celebration home with them.
One of the most visually stunning aspects of the festival is the Day of the Dead River Parade, which transforms the iconic San Antonio River Walk. The parade features intricately decorated barges, each representing different aspects of Día de los Muertos, floating down the river amidst a sea of colorful lights and floral decorations. This illuminated procession honors the spirits of the departed and offers a captivating experience for all attendees, both day and night.
Another notable highlight is the Day of the Dead San Antonio at La Villita, a historic village in the heart of the city. Here, large-scale alebrijes—brightly painted, fantastical creatures that are a hallmark of Mexican folk art—fill the streets, alongside the tallest “La Catrina” statue in the nation, standing at an impressive 38.5 feet. La Catrina, a skeletal figure often associated with Día de los Muertos, has become a symbol of the holiday and a recognizable figure in the celebration of life and death.
These festivities go far beyond just honoring those who have passed away; they serve as a living testament to the strength and resilience of Mexican traditions in San Antonio. The city’s “Spirit Season” is a colorful, joyful time for residents and visitors alike to reflect, remember, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that defines San Antonio.
As the festival continues through the weekend, it serves as a reminder of the deep ties between the city’s Mexican-American community and the cultural traditions that have shaped its identity. For many, Muertos Fest is not just an event but an opportunity to connect with history, family, and the living spirit of the city. It’s a celebration that honors the past while embracing the present, making it a truly unmissable experience in the heart of Texas.
