SAN ANTONIO — A San Antonio tradition that has brought families together for two decades to celebrate and remember loved ones will not take place this year.
Planet K has announced the cancellation of its annual Día de los Muertos Festival, originally scheduled for Nov. 2, citing political and economic challenges and immigration enforcement.
The announcement brings a disappointing end to this year’s plans for a festival that has been part of San Antonio’s cultural celebrations for 20 years.
In a statement posted on social media, organizers reflected on the festival’s history and explained why they made the difficult decision.
Planet K started this festival in San Antonio, Texas, 20 years ago, and for two decades we have remained dedicated to bringing our community together each year to celebrate, honor, and remember those who came before us.
According to Planet K, this marks only the second time in the festival’s 20-year history that organizers have canceled the celebration.
The first cancellation came during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Throughout those 20 years, we have only had to cancel this beloved tradition twice — once due to COVID-19, and now due to current political and economic challenges and immigration enforcement that caused ongoing conflict.”
Organizers also made it clear that concerns surrounding immigration enforcement played a significant role in their decision.
This decision was not made lightly. We refuse to bring people together under ICE TERRORISM & political war, and the immigration enforcement that caused ongoing conflict.
Beyond the celebration itself, Planet K acknowledged the impact the cancellation will have on the charities, local organizations, vendors and artists who have participated in the festival over the years.
“We sincerely apologize to the many charities that have benefited throughout the years, including local youth programs, community organizations, and families in need, to our vendors, artists, families, supporters, and everyone who looks forward to celebrating Día de los Muertos with us each year.”
Despite the cancellation, organizers are hopeful the festival will return next year.
“Although we are taking a pause this year, we have faith we can return in 2027.”
Planet K ended its announcement by thanking the San Antonio community for two decades of support and expressing hope that the tradition will continue.
“¡Viva la tradición! ¡Viva nuestra comunidad! ¡Día de los Muertos!”