The Día de los Muertos Festival is one of San Antonio’s most beloved cultural celebrations, and in 2024, it returns for its twelfth year. Taking place on October 26 and 27, 2024, this vibrant two-day festival will be hosted at Hemisfair in downtown San Antonio. As always, this event will blend Mexican traditions, local artistry, and community spirit to honor the memories of our departed loved ones.
A Celebration of Life and Culture
Día de los Muertos is more than just a festival; it’s a time-honored tradition that dates back to pre-Columbian times in Mexico. The festival serves as a tribute to loved ones who have passed, offering a chance for families and friends to celebrate their lives through altars, offerings, and lively processions. This year’s Muertos Fest promises to bring together San Antonio’s community with a mix of traditional and modern activities that capture the essence of this important holiday.
What to Expect at Muertos Fest 2024
Muertos Fest 2024 will be packed with activities for all ages, from interactive workshops to live performances, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Below is a breakdown of some key highlights.
Live Music and Performances
This year, festivalgoers will be treated to five stages of live music, dance, poetry, and DJ performances. With a diverse lineup of talented artists, the festival will provide entertainment from morning until night. Be sure to download the official Muertos Fest app to keep up with the full schedule and lineup details as they become available. The blend of musical genres and live performances adds a modern twist to this ancient celebration.
Altars and Remembrances
One of the festival’s most important and visually striking elements is the altar exhibition. In 2024, there will be more than 80 altars on display, built by individuals, families, and community organizations. These altars are adorned with photos, “Pan de Muerto” (sweet bread), flowers, and other offerings to honor the departed. Each altar is unique, filled with personal touches and meaningful tributes that bring to life the memories of those who are no longer with us.
If you are interested in building an altar, keep in mind that all spaces for 2024 have been filled, but there is an option to join the waitlist in case any spots open up.
Processions
The Muertos Fest Procession is one of the most iconic parts of the festival. This year, two processions are planned: one on Saturday, October 26 at 7:00 PM, and another on Sunday, October 27 at 3:00 PM. These processions will bring the community together in a moving display of love and remembrance. The colorful, lively parades feature participants dressed in traditional Día de los Muertos attire, complete with skull makeup, costumes, and giant puppets.
Interactive Workshops and Kid-Friendly Activities
On both days of the festival, attendees can participate in various interactive workshops. These sessions will teach festivalgoers about the traditions and customs surrounding Día de los Muertos. Whether you want to learn how to build an altar or create traditional crafts, these workshops will be informative and fun for all ages.
Children’s craft workshops will also be available throughout the weekend, offering a creative outlet for young festivalgoers. On Saturday, kids can participate in craft activities from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, while on Sunday, workshops will run from noon to 5:00 PM.
Muertos Mercado and Local Vendors
No festival is complete without local artisans and food vendors, and the Muertos Mercado will feature over 70 vendors offering a wide range of unique items. From handcrafted goods to delicious food, this curated shopping experience will provide festivalgoers with the chance to support local businesses while enjoying the festive atmosphere. Vendor applications are now closed for 2024, but you can check the app for a list of participating vendors closer to the event.
Festival Details and How to Attend
Muertos Fest 2024 is a free, public event that encourages everyone to come together to celebrate life, love, and culture. The festival will take place at Hemisfair Park in downtown San Antonio, located at 630 Nueva St., San Antonio, TX 78205.
The festival hours are:
- Saturday, October 26, 2024: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday, October 27, 2024: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
While the event is free, be sure to plan your transportation in advance, as parking in downtown San Antonio can be challenging during busy weekends. The festival encourages the use of rideshare, public transportation, biking, or walking to minimize traffic congestion and ensure a smoother experience for everyone.
Broadcast and Virtual Experience
For those unable to attend the festival in person, KSAT-12 will broadcast a primetime special on October 30, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This broadcast will capture the spirit of Muertos Fest, showcasing highlights from the event and interviews with participants. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the festival from the comfort of your own home.
Conclusion: A Weekend to Remember
The 12th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival promises to be an unforgettable weekend full of music, art, and culture. Whether you’re attending to honor loved ones or simply to enjoy the festivities, Muertos Fest 2024 offers a meaningful and joyous way to connect with San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage. Save the dates—October 26-27, 2024—and come experience a truly unique celebration of life and memory!