Home » Destination News » San Antonio Joins Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, Phoenix, Tucson and More in the US to Celebrate Día de los Muertos in 2025 with Unforgettable Events You Can’t Miss
Published on
October 20, 2025
San Antonio’s Muertos Fest 2025 promises to be the most exciting and memorable Day of the Dead celebration to date. Running from October 24–26, 2025, this festival is a vibrant, heartwarming tribute to loved ones who have passed on. Hemisfair Civic Park in San Antonio, Texas, will be the heart of this incredible celebration, marking its 13th year as the largest Día de los Muertos festival in the United States.
This year, Muertos Fest is set to be even bigger and better. The three-day event will pay tribute to the legendary Flaco Jiménez, a Grammy-winning icon who shaped conjunto music. The festival is packed with music, cultural events, parades, food, art, and performances that celebrate life and death. Let’s dive deep into what makes this festival so special and why it is an absolute must-attend event for 2025!
A Special Tribute to Flaco Jiménez
Flaco Jiménez, the five-time Grammy Award-winning artist, is one of the most influential musicians to come out of San Antonio. This year’s Muertos Fest will celebrate his life and legacy with a special tribute concert on October 24, marking the opening of the festival. Known for his skill on the accordion, Flaco helped popularise conjunto music across generations and borders. His contributions to Tex-Mex and Tejano music are legendary.
The tribute concert will feature performances from Santiago Jiménez Jr., Flaco’s son, along with music legends like David Hidalgo and Cesar Rosas from Los Lobos, as well as Max Baca & Los Texmaniacs. These talented artists will keep the spirit of Flaco Jiménez alive with a mix of heart-pounding rhythms and beautiful melodies that everyone can dance to.
What to Expect from Muertos Fest 2025
Muertos Fest 2025 is not just about remembering the past; it’s about celebrating life in every form. This year, the festival spans three exciting days, packed with activities that will keep you coming back for more.
Friday, October 24: ¡Presente! A Night to Remember
The festival kicks off with an emotional and sensory-friendly opening event. From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, attendees can visit the sensory-friendly altar viewing. This calm environment allows festival-goers to explore the over 80 community-created altars without any pressure. The altars are the heart of Día de los Muertos, designed by local families and artists to honour and remember their loved ones. They’re beautifully adorned with marigolds, candles, photographs, and items that the departed cherished in life.
At 8:00 PM, the evening takes a lively turn with the musical tribute to Flaco Jiménez. The atmosphere will be filled with Tejano and conjunto music, capturing the essence of San Antonio’s musical heritage. This tribute performance is the perfect way to start the festival, combining music, culture, and memories.
Saturday, October 25: A Full Day of Festivities
Saturday is the busiest and most vibrant day of Muertos Fest. Starting at 10:00 AM and running until 11:00 PM, the festival will feature live music, dance performances, poetry readings, cultural exhibits, and more. It’s a full day dedicated to exploring the many layers of Día de los Muertos, celebrating the culture and traditions that have passed down through generations.
One of the festival’s most exciting events will be the 7:00 PM procession, which will march through the streets of San Antonio. The procession will honour not just Flaco Jiménez, but also beloved figures such as Selena Quintanilla and Ozzy Osbourne. The procession will be a sight to behold, with participants in colourful costumes, face paint, and decorations that bring Día de los Muertos to life. The procession is a symbolic celebration of the lives lived and the memories we continue to cherish.
Sunday, October 26: The Final Day of Celebration
On Sunday, October 26, the festival continues with more exciting performances and activities. The fun doesn’t stop at 9:00 PM, with the final procession scheduled for 3:00 PM. This will be the perfect way to bring the festival to a close, with a final chance for attendees to remember their loved ones and celebrate their legacy.
Live Performances and Entertainment Highlights
Muertos Fest isn’t just about altars and processions; it’s also a musical and cultural extravaganza. Over 50 performances will take place over the three days, featuring a mix of Tejano, Latin, and indigenous music. Artists like Erick y Su Grupo Massore, La Doña, The Last Bandoleros, and El Dusty & the Homies will take to the stage, providing a diverse range of sounds that will keep the crowds dancing and celebrating all weekend long.
The festival will also showcase poetry readings, with notable poets such as Eddie Vega, Amalia Ortiz, and Anthony the Poet sharing their beautiful works that pay homage to the spirits of the past. These performances will add another layer of artistry and cultural depth to the festival, making it a true celebration of the arts in every form.
Muertos Mercado: A Treasure Trove of Local Crafts
No festival is complete without a bit of shopping, and Muertos Fest offers plenty of opportunities to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts. The Muertos Mercado will feature local artisans, food vendors, and merchants showcasing their handmade crafts, cultural merchandise, and traditional foods. From beautiful jewellery and artwork to delicious Mexican treats, there’s something for everyone.
Location and Accessibility
Muertos Fest 2025 will take place at Hemisfair Civic Park, located at 630 Nueva St., San Antonio, TX 78205. This beautiful park is centrally located and offers plenty of space for all the activities planned for the weekend. The park will be transformed into a vibrant celebration ground, where visitors can explore the altars, enjoy performances, and participate in the various cultural events happening throughout the festival.
Tips for AttendeesParking: Limited parking is available on-site, so it’s recommended to use ride-sharing services or public transportation to make your way to the park.What to Bring: Bring blankets for seating but leave the chairs and coolers at home. These items are discouraged to ensure comfort for everyone.Accessibility: The event is pet-friendly and also offers ADA-accessible options for attendees with disabilities. Everyone is welcome to join in the celebration!Why You Should Attend Muertos Fest 2025
Muertos Fest 2025 is more than just a celebration; it’s an emotional and cultural experience that brings together communities, artists, and families from all walks of life. Whether you’re visiting San Antonio for the first time or you’re a local, this festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions of Día de los Muertos.
It’s a celebration of life, death, and everything in between. The vibrant colours of the altars, the beats of Tejano music, the smell of delicious food, and the warmth of the community will leave you with lasting memories of San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage.
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate with thousands of people who come together to remember, honour, and rejoice in the lives of those who have passed. Muertos Fest is an unforgettable experience, and San Antonio is the perfect place to take part in this beautiful tradition.
As Muertos Fest 2025 approaches, it’s clear that this is going to be a landmark event for San Antonio. With its exciting line-up of performances, cultural activities, and Flaco Jiménez tribute, it promises to be the best edition of the festival yet. If you’re looking for an experience that combines culture, music, art, and community, look no further. Muertos Fest 2025 in San Antonio is the place to be this October 24–26.
Make sure you mark your calendar, pack your bags, and head to Hemisfair Civic Park to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime celebration of life, death, and legacy. Muertos Fest will leave you with memories that will last forever.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is an extraordinary Mexican tradition that spans centuries. It’s a day to honour loved ones who have passed away, but it’s also a celebration of life itself. Families set up beautiful altars filled with marigolds, candles, photos, and the favourite foods of their deceased loved ones. They gather to share stories, music, and dance, keeping their ancestors alive in spirit. In 2025, major U.S. cities will embrace this rich tradition with grand Día de los Muertos events, blending culture, art, music, and community.
This guide provides a detailed look at the best celebrations taking place in the United States. Whether you’re planning to attend or simply curious, you’ll find all the information you need to join in these incredible festivities.
Los Angeles, California: A Cultural ExplosioLA County’s Día de los Muertos Celebrations
In Los Angeles, the Día de los Muertos celebrations stretch from October 31 to November 1, 2025. The city’s cultural calendar includes multiple events that embrace the traditions of this beautiful holiday. The LA County Parks celebration is just one example. It will feature altars, live music, dance, and community altars across various parks in Los Angeles.
Olvera Street Festival
For those wanting an even more immersive experience, the Olvera Street Festival in Downtown LA is a must-visit. This nine-day festival (October 25–November 2, 2025) includes daily processions, art exhibitions, and food stalls that provide a true taste of Mexican culture. The Hollywood Forever Cemetery also plays host to a massive Día de los Muertos celebration, featuring live music performances, art installations, and a children’s area, making it one of the most family-friendly events in the city.
LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes
Another noteworthy celebration in LA will be the LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes Día de los Muertos Family Day on October 26, 2025. The event includes traditional performances, an altar display, and storytelling. It’s a chance to reflect on the heritage that Día de los Muertos represents, with a special focus on family and community.
Chicago, Illinois: A Celebration of Mexican HeritageDía de los Muertos at Steelworkers Park
In Chicago, the Steelworkers Park will host a special Día de los Muertos celebration on October 18, 2025. The event will run from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and will feature workshops on creating altars and other crafts related to the holiday. It’s a perfect event for families and newcomers to Día de los Muertos, offering an opportunity to learn while celebrating the lives of those who have passed.
Día de los Muertos at Marquette Park
Marquette Park in Chicago will also host a Día de los Muertos celebration on October 24, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance performances, and community altars. This event brings the festive spirit of the holiday to one of Chicago’s most beautiful parks, making it an unmissable celebration for both locals and tourists.
Houston, Texas: A Growing CelebrationMagnolia Park Parade and Festival
Houston’s Magnolia Park will host a Día de los Muertos Parade and Festival on October 25, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The festival will include a parade, live music, food vendors, and community altars. Magnolia Park’s growing celebration is quickly becoming one of the city’s major cultural events, bringing together the diverse community of Houston to share in the tradition of Día de los Muertos.
New York City, New York: A Fusion of CulturesNYC DOT Día de los Muertos Celebration
In New York City, the Día de los Muertos celebration will take place on November 2, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The event will be held at Times Square Plaza and will feature live performances, art exhibitions, and Catrina displays. The celebration is a blend of Mexican and New York cultural influences, offering a vibrant and lively atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike.
San Francisco, California: A West Coast TraditionMission Cultural Center’s Día de los Muertos
The Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts will host a special Día de los Muertos celebration on November 1, 2025. The event will include cultural exhibitions, live performances, and community altars. This is an ideal event for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community in San Francisco.
Phoenix, Arizona: A Celebration in the DesertMikiztli Festival
In Phoenix, Mikiztli: Día de los Muertos Festival will be held on November 1, 2025, at Steele Indian School Park. This festival is a celebration of indigenous culture, featuring traditional music, dance, food, and community altars. It’s one of the most significant Día de los Muertos celebrations in Arizona, drawing hundreds of visitors each year.
Tucson, Arizona: A Large-Scale ProcessionAll Souls Procession
Tucson’s All Souls Procession is one of the largest Día de los Muertos events in the U.S. and will take place on November 2, 2025. This massive parade through downtown Tucson will feature altars, music, and dance, with participants walking in honour of their ancestors. The procession is a beautiful and emotional tribute to loved ones, drawing thousands of people each year to Tucson’s streets.
El Paso, Texas: A Deep Connection to Mexican-American HeritagDía de los Muertos Festival at San Jacinto Plaza
El Paso’s Día de los Muertos Festival will be held at San Jacinto Plaza on November 1, 2025. The event will feature live music, traditional dances, and numerous altars celebrating the city’s rich Mexican-American heritage. This celebration is a must-attend for anyone looking to connect with El Paso’s cultural roots.
San Diego, California: A Historic CelebrationOld Town San Diego Día de los Muertos
In San Diego, the historic Old Town State Historic Park will host one of the largest Día de los Muertos celebrations in Southern California on November 1, 2025. The festival will include a procession to the El Campo Santo Cemetery, live music, traditional dances, and altars. It’s the perfect place to experience the beauty and significance of this holiday.
Día de los Muertos 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration across the United States. From San Antonio to Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and New York City, each city offers a unique way to honour the Mexican tradition. These festivals bring communities together to celebrate the lives of those who have passed, creating a festive, spiritual, and communal atmosphere that captures the essence of this beautiful tradition. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these celebrations will offer a deep and meaningful connection to Mexican culture and the memories of those who came before us.
