Tag: mexico

San Antonio Día de los Muertos: Local Celebrations, Food & Festivities

Celebrate Día de los Muertos season at Pearl. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Celebrate Día de los Muertos Around San Antonio: Top Events, Parades & Culinary Experiences

Día de los Muertos is one of San Antonio’s most meaningful and colorful times of the year. This season, local destinations across the city, including Pearl, the River Walk, and local luxury spots, are hosting immersive celebrations that invite us to honor passed loved ones through living art, rich culinary traditions, vibrant music, and community spirit.

Here is your complete guide to the top Día de los Muertos events happening around San Antonio.

💀 Día de los Muertos at Pearl

Dates: October 27 – November 3, 2026

Highlights: 5-foot calavera art installations, live performances, and community altars.

From late October through early November, Pearl transforms into a living canvas of remembrance. Stroll the district to admire vibrant community ofrendas, live music, children’s activities, and art installations. (Pearl, 2026)

What’s New This Year: Pearl has partnered with five local artists to create five custom 4-foot calavera (large-scale skull) sculptures. Each sculpture tells an individual story through distinct artistic techniques, cultural references, and personal memory.

Key Events at Pearl:

  • Calaverita Run 5K & Family Walk
    • When: Saturday, October 24, 2026 | Walk: 7:00 PM | 5K: 7:30 PM
    • Cost: $25 – $80
    • Details: Presented by Visit San Antonio, this family-friendly evening event combines fitness and culture. Don your best calavera-inspired outfit and run or walk along Museum Reach and through Pearl’s backyard. The family walk includes a curated route featuring traditional ofrendas.
  • Sabores de México: A Día de Muertos VIP Celebration
    • When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
    • Cost: $85 – $195
    • Details: Hosted by Alejandro Gutiérrez, founder of the Mexican Society of Grillers, this exclusive event blends storytelling, live-fire cooking, and traditional gastronomy in tribute to Mexico’s ancestral flavors.
  • Annual Día de los Muertos Main Celebration
    • When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
    • Cost: FREE
    • Details: Pearl Park hosts its main community celebration with artist-curated altars, a community ofrenda, a Catrín & Catrina contest, local vendors, and a luminous communal procession around 7:15 PM across the Pearl campus.
  • Campanas de America: Recuérdame Campanas – A Show to Remember
    • When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
    • Where: Stable Hall
  • Día de los Muertos Dinner at Hotel Emma
    • When: Friday, October 30, 2026 | Cocktails: 6:30 PM | Dinner: 7:30 PM
    • Cost: $150 per person (+ 25% service charge & 8.25% tax)
    • Details: A special 4-course dinner inspired by Chef Jesse Kirk, complete with live music and an opening cocktail hour.

🌼 River Walk Festivities at Mexico Ceaty

Dates: All October long through November 2

Where: Mexico Ceaty on the River Walk

Celebrating its first full holiday season since opening, Mexico Ceaty is bringing full-scale Día de los Muertos programming to the San Antonio River Walk. (Mexico Ceaty, 2026)

  • Daily Community Ofrenda: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM through Nov. 2.
  • Weekend Specials: Enjoy hand-made black cempasúchil (marigold) tortillas at the Tortillería, live music, face painting, and interactive agave tastings.
  • Featured Treats: Master Baker Stephannie Beyers has crafted seasonal items incorporating traditional marigolds, including Pan de Muerto, Conchas with Mole Ganache, and a Hennessy-infused “La Ofrenda” cocktail.

Day of the Dead River Parade Viewing Packages (Friday, Oct. 23)

Watch San Antonio’s iconic river parade right from the heart of the River Walk. Reserve tickets via OpenTable:

  • Rio Vista Parade Experience ($50/person): Includes reserved table seating, parade buffet access, and a house margarita.
  • Loft Parade Experience ($75/person): Offers elevated river views, reserved loft seating, parade buffet access, and a house margarita.
  • All night long: Enjoy live music, folklórico dancers, and catrinas.

🧘 Día de los Muertos Wellness & Celebration at Mokara Hotel & Spa

When: Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 5:30 PM

Where: Mokara Hotel & Spa

Kick off the season with an immersive evening focused on self-care, wellness, and tradition:

  • Food & Drink: Themed cocktails and light bites presented by Moët Hennessy.
  • Interactive Stations: Build-your-own flower crown station, Irene Forte lip gloss charm bar, and a Zents scent memory bar.
  • Pampering: Enjoy complimentary mini manicures, chair massages, a beautifully curated Ofrenda, and beats by DJ Vitamin A.
  • Bonus: Attendees receive 15% off future spa services booked during the event.
Photo: Mokara Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

San Antonio Day of the Dead River Parade & Events: Ultimate Festivity Guide

Pullman Market is celebrating Día de los Muertos with programming throughout October and early November. Photo: Robert Lerma, used with permission.

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in San Antonio: Top Events, Dining, & Festivities

San Antonio is home to some of the largest and most vibrant Día de los Muertos celebrations in the United States. From illuminated river parades and rooftop parties to exquisite tasting menus and traditional altars, here is your ultimate guide to celebrating Day of the Dead across the Alamo City this season.

1. The Westin Riverwalk: Day of the Dead River Parade Celebration

Experience the spectacular Day of the Dead River Parade right from the heart of the River Walk with fine dining, delectable cocktails, live entertainment, and premium parade seating. (The Westin Riverwalk, 2026)

  • Date & Time: October 23 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Highlights: Stilt walkers, live DJ, sugar skull face painting, and reserved parade viewing.

Available Packages:

  • Calavera Celebration Reception ($160 / person): Includes reception-style dining in the Olivares Ballroom (6:00 PM – 7:15 PM), two drink tickets, and one pre-assigned reserved chair along the River Walk.
  • VIP Zocca Patio Experience ($220 / person): Elevated four-course specialty dining on Zocca’s patio with reserved seating from 6:15 PM – 10:00 PM and one drink ticket (first course served at 6:30 PM).
  • Afterlife VIP Room Experience ($650 / 2 guests): Single-room overnight accommodations for two, VIP area reception dinner, four drink tickets (2 per guest), two outdoor VIP chairs with prime parade views, and overnight valet parking.
  • Private Loggia Packages ($2,000 for up to 8 guests | $2,500 for up to 10 guests): Semi-private loggia on the lobby level (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM). Includes buffet and reception dining, two drink tickets per guest, and a dedicated server.

2. Kimpton Santo San Antonio Riverwalk: Spirits of the Night

Head up to Tenfold Rooftop for a spooky, elevated evening honoring those who have passed.

  • Date & Time: Thursday, October 22 | 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Location: 431 S Alamo St
  • Admission: Free (Reservations encouraged)
  • Highlights: Live DJ sets, flash tattoos by local artist Wild Okra Tattoo, and seasonal cocktails.

Featured Autumn Cocktails:

  • The Midnight Harvest: Blanco Tequila, pumpkin, orange, and agave (served in a rocks glass).
  • The Black Magic Mojito: Rum, blackberry, mint, lime, and activated charcoal (served in a highball glass).

3. Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa: Remembrance Brunch

Bring family and friends together over good food, music, and festive activities at Corinne San Antonio.

  • Date & Time: October 25 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Location: 555 S Alamo St
  • Onsite Activations:
    • Live Latin guitarist and face painting (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
    • Donut decorating station
    • Marigold flower bar

4. Pullman Market at The Pearl: Month-Long Culinary Programming

Pullman Market, created by the award-winning Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, is hosting special programming throughout October and early November. (Pullman Market, 2026)

  • Location: 221 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78215

Featured Activations:

  • The Ofrenda at The Mezcaleria (Through Nov. 3): Honoring deceased loved ones of Pullman Market employees, prominently featuring Guadalupe Mendez—a pioneer of San Antonio’s market community whose legacy of community building inspires the market today.
  • Happy Hour at The Mezcaleria: Monday – Friday (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM). Enjoy a special 1 oz. pour of Mezquite x Parejo Maguey de Cerro Lechuguilla, served with chocolate and a mini concha.
  • 8-Course Dessert Tasting at Nicosi (Oct. 30 – Nov. 1): An exclusive eight-course dessert menu inspired by nostalgic memories of Halloween and Día de los Muertos in San Antonio.
    • Price: $150 per person (includes standard beverage pairings; optional Reserve Wine Pairing for +$50).
    • Seatings: 5:30 PM & 8:00 PM (Reservations on OpenTable).

5. La Panadería: Altars, Calaveras, & Pan de Muerto

La Panadería is bringing vibrant art installations and beloved traditional pastries to all of its San Antonio locations. (La Panadería, 2026)

  • Community Altars (Starting Oct. 24): Guests are invited to bring photos of loved ones who have passed to place on community altars across all locations.
  • Large Calaveras: Decorated skulls adorn entrances to welcome guests.
  • Seasonal Pan de Muerto (Available through Nov. 1–2): Traditional Mexican sweet bread available in Pink, White, and Talavera designs.
    • Mini Packs: 6 Regular Sugar ($25) | 6 Pink Sugar ($30)
    • Family-Style: Large Regular Sugar ($25) | Large Pink Sugar ($27.50)
    • Available for pre-order online and in-person.
La Panadería’s Pan de Muerto. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

¡VIVA! at Mexico Ceaty: A 5-Day Mexican Independence Day Fiesta in San Antonio

The celebration will include live music, themed cocktails, and a grand finale. Photo: Katie James, used with permission.

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day on the San Antonio River Walk with ¡VIVA! at Mexico Ceaty, a five-day cultural and culinary fiesta running Saturday, Sept. 12, through Wednesday, Sept. 16. (Mexico Ceaty, 2026)

Created by acclaimed Chef Jason Dady, Mexico Ceaty is a 25,000-square-foot immersive dining and entertainment destination inside Rivercenter. The week builds from a high-energy weekend kickoff to a mariachi-filled finale across The Plaza, Dos Cantinas, and beyond.

Event Schedule & Highlights

  • ¡VIVA! Weekend Kickoff | Saturday, Sept. 12 (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
    • Kick off the festivities in The Plaza with live mariachi, featured drinks, food specials, and a dedicated photo moment.
    • Explore artisan goods, imported foods, and cookbooks during a special activation in The Mercado marketplace.
  • Mexican Breakfast: Independence Edition | Sunday, Sept. 13 (8:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
    • Enjoy live mariachi music while dining on signature specials at Dos Cantinas, including Pozole Verde a la Alcorta, house-made Barbacoa & Big Red, and fresh Conchas with Mexican Hot Chocolate from Dulce & Aroma.
    • Sip on brunch cocktails like the CDMX Mimosa, Bloody Maria, and Carajillo.
  • The ¡VIVA! Build Up | Monday, Sept. 14 & Tuesday, Sept. 15 (All Day)
    • Keep the celebration going with Independence-themed food and drink specials available throughout Mexico Ceaty as the countdown to Sept. 16 continues.
  • Mexican Independence Day Celebration | Wednesday, Sept. 16 (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
    • The main event features a festive ¡VIVA! Hour followed by live mariachi performances and entertainment.

Location & Access

  • Venue: Mexico Ceaty at Rivercenter
  • Address: 849 E. Commerce St., San Antonio, TX 78205 (River Walk Level; enter near Fat Tuesdays or Holey Moley)

About Chef Jason Dady & The Restaurant Group

Since 2001, James Beard Award semifinalist and Food Network veteran Chef Jason Dady, alongside his brother Jake and wife Crystal, has helped redefine San Antonio’s culinary landscape. Named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy Chef Ambassador in 2025, Dady operates nine acclaimed concepts:

  • Mexico Ceaty: Immersive dining and cultural destination on the River Walk
  • Tre Trattoria: Tuscan-Italian dining
  • Two Bros. BBQ Market: Classic Texas pit barbecue
  • Range: Premium Tuscan steakhouse
  • Roca & Martillo: Tuscan-meets-Texan cuisine
  • Tre Pizzeria: Authentic pizza and pasta in Boerne
  • Ice Ice Dady: Hawaiian shaved ice at The Rock at La Cantera
  • Lil’ Bros BBQ Shack: Backyard pitmaster pop-up at The Rock at La Cantera
Mexico Ceaty at Rivercenter. Photo: Katie James, used with permission.

Celebrate the Season: Top Fall & Holiday Events at Pearl San Antonio

Pearl offers fun and festivities this fall and winter with Día de los Muertos, Taste of Pearl, Mariachi Showcase and more. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO  – It’s time to start looking ahead to the fall season and the many exciting events planned. Connect with culture, creativity, and community at San Antonio’s Pearl as it brings a vibrant lineup of fall and winter events from September through December. Whether celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month or getting into the holiday spirit, here is everything happening at Pearl for the rest of the year. (Pearl, 2026)

Date(s)EventHighlights
Sunday, Sept 13Mariachi ShowcaseLocal mariachi performances, art, and an authentic celebration of San Antonio culture.
Tuesday, Sept 15Viva DieciséisKick off Hispanic Heritage Month for Mexican Independence Day with live music, public art, and a special ceremony.
Wednesdays (Sept 16 – Nov 25)Fall Night MarketsMidweek evening market featuring local small businesses and unique artisan vendors.
Tuesday, Oct 27 – Tuesday, Nov 3Día de los MuertosLarger-than-life altars, curated art installations, live music, and a traditional procession.
Friday, Nov 27Holiday Tree Lighting CeremonySeasonal kickoff featuring the annual tree lighting, hot chocolate, carolers, and river barge rides.
Saturday, Nov 28Taste of Pearl Annual FestivalAlfresco festival filled with live music, art, food, and shopping for the whole family.
Wednesdays (Dec 2, 9, & 16)Holiday Night MarketsFestive evening markets with specialty vendors—ideal for holiday shopping and seasonal date nights.

About Pearl 

Pearl is a dynamic destination in San Antonio, built on the site of the former historic Pearl Brewery along the banks of the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River Walk. The neighborhood’s architectural gems, like the original 1894 brewhouse and stable, are home to the MICHELIN Two-Key and Five Diamond rated Hotel Emma and Stable Hall, a standout live music venue.

At the heart of Pearl, Pullman Market features acclaimed culinary concepts including two MICHELIN-starred restaurants. As a driving force for San Antonio’s hospitality, culinary, and cultural scene, Pearl welcomes more than 5 million visitors a year to experience unique culinary concepts, distinct retail, nationally recognized weekend markets, vibrant residential communities, innovative office tenants, and the San Antonio campus of the Culinary Institute of America.

Día de los Muertos Events You Won’t Want to Miss

Pearl ofrenda. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Where to Celebrate Día de los Muertos in San Antonio: A Guide to New and Expanded Events

From art-filled altars to soulful dinners, the city honors life, love, and remembrance.

San Antonio is a city that remembers, a place where history, heart, and heritage intertwine beautifully during Día de los Muertos. In 2025, the celebration grows even more vibrant, with expanded events at Pearl, Pullman Market, and Clementine. Whether you’re drawn by the music, the food, or the cultural traditions, these celebrations offer a meaningful way to honor loved ones and embrace the spirit of community.

Día de los Muertos at Pearl

Dates: Saturday, November 1 & Sunday, November 2
Location: Pearl Park

Pearl once again comes alive with color, music, and memory as it hosts its annual Día de los Muertos festivities, now a two-day celebration.

Highlights include:

  • Large-scale, artist-curated ofrendas across the Pearl campus
  • Live performances by Grupo Volcan (Sunday)
  • Children’s art activities hosted by the Consulado de México
  • A communal procession through Pearl on Sunday evening at 7:15 p.m.
  • Roaming entertainers, art installations, and food inspired by Mexican traditions
  • A Catrin & Catrina Contest featuring a partnership with i la Catrina, showcasing seven live fashion Catrinas that tell the story and evolution of La Catrina through the ages

Special Experiences:

Mark your calendars and experience a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and community remembrance at Pearl.

Pullman Market: A Four-Day Celebration

Dates: October 23 – November 2
Location: Pullman Market

Pullman Market honors Día de los Muertos with a lively four-day celebration featuring ofrendas, costume contests, live DJ sets, and family-friendly fun at Mezquite.

Event Highlights:

  • Ofrenda Live (Oct. 23–Nov. 2): The Pullman Market altar honors San Antonio’s farmers and market pioneers, adorned with fresh produce, baked goods, and a Texas beer as an offering of remembrance.
  • Muertos Mariachi (Oct. 30, 5–7 p.m.): Enjoy live mariachi performances by the market’s ofrenda, blending music and memory in a community gathering.
  • Muertos at Mezquite (Nov. 1–2): A two-day celebration of music, color, and community featuring food, fun, and festive beats for the whole family.

Halloween Offerings at Pullman Market

  • Mezquite Halloween Pachanga – Friday, October 31, 6:30 p.m. to midnight
    Celebrate with food, music, and costume contests for both kids and adults.
  • Trick-or-Treating – All day across the market
  • Late-Night DJ – Until midnight in the Mezcaleria

Clementine’s Día de los Muertos Dinner

Date: Sunday, November 2 | 4 p.m.–8 p.m.
Location: Clementine, Castle Hills

Clementine, the beloved Castle Hills restaurant, is hosting its annual Día de los Muertos dinner in collaboration with 2M Smokehouse and Baked.

Chefs John and Elise Russ, Esaul Ramos Jr., and Grecia Ramos join forces for a one-night-only six-course prix-fixe menu, a heartfelt celebration of remembrance, flavor, and community.

Evening Highlights:

  • Mariachi performances and a stunning community ofrenda on the patio
  • Guests can write love affirmations for departed loved ones and place them on the ofrenda
  • Interactive beverage tasting stations featuring a curated selection of wines

To close the evening, Elise and Grecia will present Día de los Muertos-inspired desserts, including creative takes on pan de muerto, calabaza treats, mini sundaes, and sweet mignardises.

Reservations:

  • $135 per person (excluding tax and gratuity)
  • Optional wine pairing: $65
  • Book via OpenTable

Clementine’s annual dinner is a beautiful tribute to loved ones, where food, music, and shared memories bring the community together in true Día de los Muertos spirit.

Celebrate, Remember, and Reconnect

From Pearl’s grand installations to intimate culinary experiences at Clementine, San Antonio offers countless ways to celebrate life and honor those who came before us. This Día de los Muertos season, immerse yourself in the city’s rich blend of culture, remembrance, and community spirit.

Celebrate Life and Legacy: Experience Día de los Muertos at Pearl

Ofrenda at Pearl Día de los Muertos. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO – Pearl‘s annual Día de los Muertos celebration is returning to San Antonio this weekend, with a promise of unique experiences for visitors and community to enjoy across the destination on Saturday and Sunday. From beautiful ofrendas, catrinas, alebrijes crafted by local artists, to live performances and special events, visitors will have a slate of activities to look forward to for those looking to celebrate the deep-rooted traditions of Día de los Muertos. (Pearl, 2024)

The celebration kicks off on Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 5p.m. – 9p.m. featuring several art installations displayed around Pearl’s 22-acre footprint, including Hotel Emma, a community altar under Pearl’s Shade Structure and, for the first time ever, Pullman Market. 

Also to be showcased is a beautiful Tzompantli art installation featuring 30 hand painted skulls by San Antonio artist Regina Moya, and two large alebrijes by local artist Mauro de la Tierra, made of recycled materials.

Programming for the day will include a Catrin and Catrina Costume Contest, children’s art activities, face painting, a Día de los Muertos procession around Pearl, and performances by the University of Incarnate Word student mariachi and a grand finale performance by Azul.

Full Schedule:

Saturday, November 2, 2024
5p.m. Día de los Muertos at Pearl kicks off with live entertainment,
vendors and pop-ups
5p.m.-8p.m. Alebrije & Lelé Doll Workshops (Pearl’s Shade Structure)
6:15p.m. Día de los Muertos Procession by Las Monas & Son Olvidados
9p.m. Event Ends

Sunday, November 3, 2024
10a.m.-12p.m. Lelé Doll Workshop Opens (Pearl’s Shade Structure)
5p.m.-5:10p.m. Event Opening by Master of Ceremonies Michael Quintanilla
5:15p.m.-6p.m. Performance by UIW Mariachi & Lizeth Robledo
6:05p.m.-7:10p.m. DJ Steven Lee Moya
7:15p.m.-7:45p.m. Procession by Las Monas & Son Olvidados
7:15p.m.-7:45p.m. DJ Steven Lee Moya
7:45p.m.-7:55p.m. Catrin & Catrina Contest
8p.m.-9p.m. Azul Barrientos Closing Performance

“Pearl has been committed to celebrating Día de los Muertos in an authentic and respectful way including our community of artists since our inception, helping to nurture it into the vibrant citywide celebration that has become an integral part of San Antonio’s cultural landscape. Each year, we look forward to curating unique experiences where visitors and the community come together in collective remembrance, celebrating the beauty and depth of this tradition in an authentic way.” – Silver Ventures CMO Michael Joergensen.

Hotel Emma Halloween Cocktail Party – Thursday, October 31, 2024
Join Hotel Emma’s Halloween Cocktail Party on October 31 from 6p.m. – 9p.m. This spirited gathering will showcase delightful collaborations with three esteemed local bar teams: The Bar at Mixtli, Pastiche, and Atlee’s Rally. Guests can indulge in offerings featuring El Tequileno, Los Siete Misterios, and Desert Door Sotol. Tickets are available for $50, which includes two drink tokens and one food token. Attendees can anticipate an evening filled with door prizes, lively music, and festive Halloween activities. The excitement continues with an after-party at Pastiche. More information and tickets are available here.

Hotel Emma Altar & Dia de los Muertos Dinner – Friday, November 1
Hotel Emma, the prestigious Five-Diamond hotel and recent recipient of a MICHELIN Two-Key rating, will host its annual Día de los Muertos celebration on November 1, 2024. The centerpiece of the event is a stunning traditional altar adorned with fresh marigold flowers in honor of Emma Koehler, the hotel’s namesake and former leader of the Pearl Brewery. This exquisite ofrenda pays homage to Emma’s enduring legacy and is on display now until Wednesday, November 4. As part of the festivities, Hotel Emma will also present its highly anticipated annual Día de los Muertos dinner, offering guests an exclusive culinary experience that blends luxury with cultural significance on Friday, November 1. There will be a reception from 6p.m. – 7p.m. with dinner taking place from 7p.m.-9p.m. Tickets are $130 / person. More information and tickets are available here.

Pullman Market
Pullman Market is thrilled to announce the first ever installation of its Día de los Muertos altar at the Mezcalaria, beginning October 21, 2024. The celebration will continue across Pullman Market on October 31st, featuring live Mariachi music, beautifully crafted altars, and a lively costume contest in the courtyard. Attendees can also enjoy festive face painting, making it a perfect outing for families and friends. The festivities continue through Monday, November 4 with a Dia de los Muertos brunch at Mezquite.

Food Hall at Bottling Department Presents MONSTER MASH
October 30, 2024 at Pearl Park
Join the fun at Pearl Park for a graveyard smash at the very first MONSTER MASH with SoundCream, presented by Food Hall at Bottling Department. Get ready to dance the night away with spooky beats, wicked good vibes and plenty of tricks & treats. The event is free and open to the public from 5p.m. to 9p.m.