Muertos Fest, one of the largest Day of the Dead celebrations in the United States, is set to return to Hemisfair in downtown San Antonio from 23 to 25 October 2026. The festival, which attracts over 100,000 attendees annually, will offer a vibrant mix of remembrance, art, music, and cultural celebration.

The festival's theme, "Remember, Honour, Celebrate," encapsulates its mission to bring people together to honour those who have passed and celebrate cultural traditions. Founded in 2013, Muertos Fest has become a nationally recognised event, featuring more than 80 community-created altars. These altars, crafted by families, schools, artists, and community organisations, serve as poignant tributes to loved ones.

A highlight of the festival is the two signature Día de los Muertos processions, which transform into moving tributes filled with music, dance, and art. The festivities commence on Friday, 23 October, with "Presente: A Night to Remember," featuring a large-scale outdoor altar exhibition and a Goodwill San Antonio Fashion Show.

The main festival activities will unfold on 24 and 25 October, with five stages hosting live music and performances, workshops, and over 75 art vendors at the Muertos Mercado. Organisers have opened applications for those interested in creating altars or participating in the processions.

Letras en la Frontera, a San Antonio-based literary organisation, is the nonprofit partner for the event, collaborating with UNAM San Antonio to bring back the popular Day of the Dead Bookstore. For more information, visit muertosfest.com

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