San Antonio is home to the largest Día de Los Muertos—or Day of the Dead—celebration in the United States. The holiday is traditionally observed on November 1 and 2, though many cities hold events throughout October and November.

From the tallest catrin and catrina in the U.S. to gorgeous ofrendas to festive costumes and dancing, you’ll feel the holiday’s spirit everywhere you turn in San Antonio.

The aim of Día de Los Muertos is to honor the legacy of departed loved ones with boisterous celebrations and happy memories of the past and present. San Antonio delivers on that in a grandiose way. Here are some of the top sights in the city’s La Villita Historic Arts Village. 

The Largest Catrin and Catrina in the United States

Mexican printmaker Jose Guadalupe Posada designed “La Catrina” in 1913. He created the satirical figure to poke fun at Indigenous people who rejected their roots in favor of more lavish European fashion styles and ideals. Posada wanted to convey a simple message: It doesn’t matter what your status was in life, as we’re all equal in death.

Chef Johnny Hernandez, one of the core drivers in bringing Día de Los Muertos celebrations to San Antonio, shows that spirit to a record-setting display in La Villita. Hernandez partnered with Mexican artists to build the largest catrina and catrin in the United States.

The pair stands a staggering 38.5 feet tall, overlooking the festivities across the city. They symbolize love, memory, and a joyful reverence for honoring life and death. Keep an eye out for other catrins and catrinas around La Villita, too. They’re often sitting on a bench, perhaps twirling an umbrella or strumming a guitar. And they make for excellent photos!

A Calavera Collection of Colorful Skulls

Calaveras, representations of human skulls (or sometimes full skeletons), are among the most traditional symbols of Day of the Dead. In many situations, they’re created as “sugar skulls,” a sweet offering to people who have passed away.

While you can’t eat the Calavera Collection of La Villita, it’s still worth admiring the intricate and eye-catching designs. Over 40 skulls are situated around Maverick Plaza, the River Walk, and Chef Johnny Hernandez’s restaurants, which include La Gloria, Botanero Lounge, Burgerteca Ice House, Casa Hernan, and more.

Alex Rubio curated the collection, which features works from San Antonio artists. Each calavera has a story behind it—both figuratively and literally. The skulls are 360 degrees of gorgeous artwork, and there’s often a hidden or inspiring visual on their backs, so be sure to walk around every skull you come across.  

The Ofrenda in La Villita

Ofrendas are temporary altars designed for the deceased. Day of the Dead ofrendas traditionally include photos of the person or people being celebrated, some of their favorite foods, marigolds or other flowers, and activities they enjoyed during their lives.

Muertos Fest features more than 80 ofrendas, each created by a different person or group and honoring a loved one. La Villita also gets a special ofrenda, tucked in an alley between shops and vibrant, colorful creatures.  

The annual Calaverita Run, which debuted in 2025, allows runners to contribute to a specially built ofrenda. Each racing bib has a spot to tape a photo of a dearly departed someone. Upon finishing, participants can place their bibs on the altar, creating a beautiful bond with other runners. I ran for my first-ever dog, Franxie, seen here being a centerpiece on a table. She would have given me some congratulatory licks after I crossed the finish line.

The Day of the Dead Parade Floats

Hundreds of thousands of people line the River Walk to watch San Antonio parades throughout the year for events like Fiesta and Christmas. The Día de Los Muertos parade just might be the most extravagant gala of them all. 

With live bands dancing and playing traditional tunes, painted faces and costumes, and over 20 floats passing along the river, the action is nonstop. The 2025 parade had a handful of standout floats.

Los Juguetes (Toys) was one of my favorites, bringing back some instant nostalgia. Toys are often left on ofrendas to honor children who have passed, encouraging their spirits to return and let out some laughter. The Ferris wheel with little skeleton passengers was exceptionally cute.

Sagrado Corazón was another gem, featuring mariachi performers from Churchill High School. And Panteón, presented by Las Palapas, featured the restaurant’s mascot, Okie, dancing the night away. Any float boasting a cheerful burrito wearing a sombrero is a winner.

Floats are new each year, though you might see some themes and presenting sponsors make return appearances. Tickets for the 2026 parade go on sale in early November. Visit Day of the Dead San Antonio to secure your spot, or test your luck and sidle up on the bridges along the River Walk to get a peek at the stunning creations cruising by. 

Good Eats Along the San Antonio River Walk

All these festivities may lead to hunger pangs. The good news is that the San Antonio River Walk has many scrumptious food options.

If you’re in a meat and seafood mood, Boudro’s Texas Bistro has been a River Walk staple since 1986. The Boudreaux’s Shrimp and Grits will make you smack the table in glee, and the Texas Filet of Sirloin & Frites is a hearty burst of flavor. The restaurant has some of the city’s best guacamole, to boot.  

Casa Catrina is a taco lover’s paradise. Add the Corn Truffle & Cheese Quesadilla as an appetizer and do your best to save room for dessert, because the Tres Leches and Platanos Foster are both well worth the indulgence. Meanwhile, any offering from La Gloria will satisfy enchilada cravings. They also have seasonal festive drinks, such as the Blood Eyes Margarita. The drink gives the appearance of eyes floating in a glass of blood; thankfully, it tastes much better than that.   

A quick walk to Pullman Market at The Pearl uncovers a bounty for dining in or picking up a few groceries to make something tasty back at your place. Burgers by the Butcher is a particular favorite. Grab The Cowboy with Taki-seasoned Hand Cut Fries and you’ll be sated for the rest of the day.  

Where to Stay in San Antonio for Día de Los Muertos

At just a seven-minute walk from La Villita, Riverwalk Plaza Hotel is a nice central hub to see all the Día de Los Muertos artwork. The courtyard pool, on-site restaurant and bar, and a 24-hour lounge with games provide ample entertainment between sightseeing. Most rooms have a lovely view, either of the River Walk or overlooking the city.  

For something more upscale along the river, Hotel Emma has been transformed from a 19th-century Brewhouse into a luxury hotel that serves as a welcome into the Pearl District. It’s the preferred hotel for major musicians coming through San Antonio, and special offers include bonuses like hand-blown glasses, woven jutes, and holiday ornaments. As a bonus, the hotel’s namesake is Emma Koehler, who has a fascinating backstory. 

Should you prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle, Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa is an oasis in the Hill Country. The resort features a luxury spa with an infinity pool overlooking the rolling hills, an 18-hole golf course, and plenty of options for shopping and dining. During the Day of the Dead, the hotel hosts its own celebration, including events and a large lobby ofrenda.

It’s a fitting reminder that just about everyone in San Antonio gets in the spirit for Day of the Dead. With the biggest celebration in the country, it’s hard not to be swept away in the festivities and mirror the grand smiles of the calaveras.

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Cover Photo Joey Held

Joey Held is a writer, author, and podcaster based in Austin. His book, Kind, But Kind of Weird: Short Stories on Life’s Relationships, features stories inspired by living in the Lone Star State. He’s also the founder of Fun Fact Friyay, a newsletter for curious people, and Wacky Travel, for travelers who enjoy quirky discoveries in the places they visit.