Ghouls and Boys
Texas' largest Dia de los Muertos festival shows new spirit in 2018
No other city in Texas celebrates Day of the Dead like San Antonio. With Labor Day gone and Halloween candy starting to appear on grocery store shelves, it's officially time to plan fall festivities and travel.
Texas' biggest Dia de los Muertos festival runs October 20 through November 3, giving Austinites plenty of time to visit, enjoy the festivities, and get home in time for trick-or-treating. This year's festival will feature more than 20 unique events ranging from fun runs to spooky tours to glorious altar displays.
Though Dia de los Muertos is always one of San Antonio's best-attended events, this year's Tricentennial celebration will turn it into a can't-miss party. "This collective spirit offers an unforgettable way to experience the city, as well as to gain insight into this unique, historic holiday which views death with lightness and humor rather than fear," organizers say in a release.
Restaurants and bars across the city will also join in the fun with festive decorations, themed events, and, of course, pan de muerto.
Among the highlight's of this year's spirited celebration is Dia de los Muertos at La Villita, a two-day festival running October 28-29. This year's Muertos Fest features the largest open altar exhibition in the city, with more than 30 displays featured.
Those looking to get crafty can head to Traders Village San Antonio on October 20 for a special mask-making workshop beginning at noon. Get the whole family in the spirit of the holiday during a special costume parade, complete with prizes awarded to the best dressed.
For an even dressier affair, consider attending the 2nd annual Catrina Ball. Held on October 27 at the San Antonio Central Library, the $250 tickets are a bit pricey, but proceeds benefit both the San Antonio Public Library Foundation and the Latino Collection and Resource Center.
SAY Sí Muertitos Fest takes over the youth development organization's headquarters on November 2-3, and includes "unique cultural happenings including a multidisciplinary showcase of student art, altars, family folk art workshops, gourmet food, an artisan mercado, and live cultural performances highlighting local dancers, musicians, and entertainers."
And the Pearl will also transform for the festivities. On November 1-2, the development will host artist altars, a procession, live music, and kid's activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Other highlights include the Haunted History Halloween Tour by San Antonio Museum of Art on October 30, the Mala Luna Music Festival October 27-28, and Market Square's Dia de los Muertos celebration November 3-4. Check out the full list of events here.
