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Where to Celebrate Day of the Dead Across Texas

Texas is as culturally diverse as its landscapes, and when it comes to celebrating Day of the Dead, the Lone Star State truly comes alive with vibrant festivities and honored traditions.

From the illuminated floats on the San Antonio River Walk and the coffin races of Denton to the bustling streets of Austin’s Viva la Vida Festival and Laredo’s Pozole Cooking Contest, Texas hosts so many diverse Day of the Dead celebrations.

Whether you’re looking to participate in a solemn altar ceremony or you want to lean more into the excitement surrounding this traditional holiday, there are so many places to do just that all across Texas!

We also have a guide dedicated to Day of the Dead events in Dallas and San Antonio’s Day of the Dead Festival!

Discover unique and meaningful items to commemorate Day of the Dead in our Texas Latina collection.

Amarillo

Festival de Danza Folklórico (Free)

Celebrate Day of the Dead with live cultural dance performances by Ballet Folklórico de Amarillo TX at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts. October 28, 2023, 6:30pm.

Angleton

Brazoria County Historical Museum

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Day of the Dead in Texas through the eyes of talented young artists at the Brazoria County Historical Museum. This student art showcase features art by local 6th through 8th graders.

As you explore this captivating exhibit, keep an eye out for the museum’s special awards, including Best in Show, as well as 1st and 2nd place for each grade level. October 23 – November 6, 2023.

Austin

Moody Amphitheatre (Free)

The stage will be transformed into a communal ofrenda by the skilled hands of local Tejana florist Yliana Lara, with images and decorations honoring departed loved ones.

There will also be live music, dance performances, Calavera face painting, and vendors like Veracruz All-Natural, Eso’s Tacos, Dorothy’s ATX, and La Buena Buena. November 1, 2023, 6pm to 10pm.

Downtown Austin’s Viva la Vida Festival (Free)

Experience the Mexic-Arte Museum’s 40th Annual Viva La Vida Festival & Parade, the city’s largest and longest-running celebration of Day of the Dead in Texas!

The entirety of Congress Avenue will be full of food stalls, local vendors, hands-on crafts, demos, local artists, and live performances. There will also be a low-rider exhibition on display. October 28, 2023, 12pm to 6pm. The parade will occur from 12pm to 1pm.

Independence Brewing Co. (Free)

The Taproom will have live music from El Tulo, along with dancing, face painting, local vendors, food, and a public ofrenda guests can contribute to. There will also be a special re-release of their Choc Mool beer.

You’re invited to come dressed in your best Day of the Dead costume. All ages are welcome. November 2, 2023, 6pm to 10pm.

CirqueVida Presents “Ofrenda: Celebrating Dia de Los Muertos”

This immersive circus and dance show will feature a live Mariachi band, performances by aerialists and contortionists, artists, vendors, and cocktails by Fierce Whiskers Distillery.

Keep in mind the event will take place partially outdoors. Location: Fierce Whiskers Distillery. Shows will be on November 3, 2023, 8pm to 11pm; November 4, 2023, 7pm to 10pm. Purchase tickets here.

Planet K Fireworks (Free)

The Texas Fireworks Day of the Dead Celebration, hosted by Planet K, will take place at Austin Krieg Field. It is known as one of the biggest fireworks shows in all of Texas! October 31, 2023, 9:30pm.

Bandera

Frontier Times Museum

Experience the warmth and traditions of Day of the Dead at the Frontier Times Museum during their Family Day celebration. For the price of museum admission, you can enjoy family-friendly activities, Mexican cookies, and agua frescas when you’re not exploring the museum’s exhibits. October 28, 2023, 10am to 4:30pm.

There will also be an elaborate ofrenda exhibit by Texas artist Joan Estes on display at the museum from October 23 – November 4, 2023.

Beaumont

SuperAntojo Bakery (Free)

The SuperAntojo Bakery will host a three-day event in celebration of Day of the Dead in Beaumont, Texas. On Friday, there will be a skeleton sand sculpture activity, followed by a free movie and a taco night on Saturday. Sunday’s festivities will include a ribbon cutting, Catrina Contest and Ortha Gallery Performances. There will also be ofrendas on display. October 27- 29, 2023, 10am to 1pm.

Bonham

Creative Arts Center (Free)

Get ready for a vibrant celebration of Day of the Dead at the Creative Arts Center in Bonham, Texas. There will be live music, vendors, a Catrin and Calavera make-up contest, and an after party with live music. October 28, 2023, 12pm to 6pm (afterparty will be from 6pm to 7pm).

Day of the Dead Paint Party

This beginner-friendly paint-along will be led by the talented Jessie Bryant of 3 Little Birds Paintings, where you’ll create a Sugar Skull Couple painting of your very own.

All painting supplies are included, and for those who wish to indulge, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and adult beverages will be available. No previous experience needed.

Registration for this class is required by October 26th. Email BonArtCenter@gmail.com or call 903-640-2196. Location: Creative Arts Center. October 28, 2023, 2pm to 4pm.

Brownsville

Downtown Brownsville (Free)

This event is not just about honoring the departed but also a vibrant celebration of life and culture. A variety of events will take place over the course of five days in downtown Brownsville. See the Facebook event for a full list. November 1-5, 2023.

Bryan

Ronin Farm & Restaurant

Enjoy a five-course, Murder Mystery Dinner in celebration of Day of the Dead in Texas at the Ronin Farm & Restaurant. You can also purchase a beverage pairing add-on with your meal. Meanwhile, you’ll receive clues from multiple sources.

If you successfully crack the case, you will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a gift certificate for two to one of Ronin Farm’s iconic Full Moon Dinners.

There will also be a traditional ofrenda on-site guests can contribute to in honor of their lost loved ones. Keep in mind this event takes places at the Ronin Restaurant. Address: 800 N. Main Street. November 1, 2023, 6:30 pm to 9:30pm. Reservations can be made online or by phone.

Corpus Christi

Downtown Corpus Christi (Free)

Three stages will feature Latin-influenced rock & pop music, Mariachis’, Ballet Folklórico and cultural dancers, youth performers, local DJs, and regional bands. There will be 85 vendors, 25 food vendors, an art expo by K Space Contemporary featuring everything from youth art pieces and pinatas, art demos, and an ofrenda display at Ritz Theater.

Guests are encouraged to come dressed up and get their face-painted in celebration of Day of the Dead. There will also be a Kid’s Corner with arts, crafts, and entertainment. October 28, 2023, 3pm to midnight.

Cypress

Four-Course Meal at Ambriza Cypress

Ambriza Cypress will be hosting a four-course meal for just $85 per person in celebration of Day of the Dead. November 1, 2023.

Related Posts: Where to Celebrate Halloween in Texas

Denison

Downtown Denison (Free)

Join the Denison Arts Council and Discover Denison for their 12th Annual Day of the Dead Celebration in Texas! There will be live music, a car show, food stalls, merchant vendors, and a Giant Puppet Parade at 4pm. Then, at 4:30pm, there will be a tribute show for Cristina Amora, the Queen of Tejano. November 4, 2023, 10:00am to 4:00pm.

La Catrina Gala

The event will feature artwork from various local artists, inspired by Day of the Dead and Latino influences, and will be auctioned off. The funds raised through this art auction will go towards supporting student art scholarships.

There will also be a homemade salsa contest, food, Aztec dancer, and Mayan dancers. Guests are encouraged to come in their El Catrin & La Catrina costume or formal wear. Location: The Venue on Main. November 4, 2023, 7pm to 10pm. Tickets can be purchased here.

Photos by Discover Denison

Denton

Downtown Denton (Free)

Prepare for a weekend of fun at Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival, held on E. Hickory and Industrial Street. Explore the pumpkin patch, play games, savor the flavors of the salsa cook-off, and dance alongside talented street performers.

You can also root for your favorite team in the famous coffin races or stay for the mesmerizing lantern-lit twilight parade. And if you’re in for a spine-tingling treat, don’t miss Denton’s very own Halloween musical, Cirque du Horror! October 27 & 28, 2023.

Photos by Discover Denton

El Paso

Downtown El Paso (Free)

You can expect a host of activities like live music, dance performances, a special art & farmers market, food trucks, free themed streetcar rides, and a parade through the Downtown Arts District with decorated floats, marionettes, and alebrijes.

You’ll also be able to participate in hands-on activities at the El Paso Museum of Art and the El Paso Museum of History. October, 28, 2023, 11am to 9pm. Parade will last from 4pm to 5pm.

Concordia Cemetery

During the Concordia Día de Los Muertos Festival, you’ll find vendors, booths, and a tantalizing array of food trucks in the Buffalo Soldier Memorial lot. The event will also feature five live performances and a DJ in the Meditation Garden.

In honor of Day of the Dead traditions, ofrendas are welcome in designated areas. There will also be a community ofrenda just inside the main gate for the public to contribute photos and meaningful gifts.

General admission is $5, and children under 12 enter for free. November 4, 2023, 2:00pm to 9:00pm.

Elgin

The Lightnin’ Bar

Participate in a modern spin on a heartfelt tradition at the Dia de Los Muertos Trunk Altar Show. Cars of all kinds will feature ofrendas built out of their trunks, featuring photographs, flowers, music, and more. Older cars are encouraged to join the festivities. Vehicles will set-up in front of Lightnin’ Bar on Central Avenue between Main and Avenue C. Or, just come by to admire them! November 1, 2023 at 8pm. RSVP online to ensure you have a space.

Elgin Recreation Center (Free)

For this month’s craft day, learn to make ofrenda frames, paper marigolds, and papel picado. You can also choose to donate your creation to the community ofrenda that will be on display at the Elgin Public Library.

Complimentary coffee and Mexican sweet bread will be provided. Keep in mind this activity is for the senior citizens of the community (ages 60+). October 16, 2023, 2pm to 4pm.

Farmers Branch

Farmers Branch Historical Park (Free)

This local event will include live music and dance performances, Loteria, kid’s crafts, and a featured airbrush artist. There will also be a beautiful community altar in the Old Church where you can pay your respects and honors your own beloved family and friends. Notecards, candles, and flowers will be provided for guests to place on the altar. November 2, 2023, 6pm to 9pm.

Fort Worth

La Gran Plaza de Fort Worth (Free)

There will be a special ceremony featuring religious ofrenda blessings and songs to honor the departed. Location: Tricolor Auto Stage. October 29, 2023 at 1pm.

Galveston

Galveston County Museum (Free)

Get ready to dance the night away as the Mambo Jazz Kings take center stage at this year’s Day of the Dead Celebration! You’re encouraged to celebrate by painting your face and donning your finest El Catrin and La Catrina costumes.

The celebration will take place on the grounds of the historic old courthouse, which are now the home of the Galveston County Museum. October 28, 2023, 7pm.

Garland

Granville Arts Center (Free)

You can expect live performances by Los Matachines, Mexico 2000, and talented students showcasing their Mariachi and Ballet Folklórico skills. There will also be food trucks, bounce houses, and an artisan market.

Be sure to explore the beautiful ofrendas on display and don’t miss your chance to grab one of their unique commemorative t-shirts that will be available for purchase. November 1, 2023, 5:30pm to 9pm.

Grand Prairie

Dia de Los Muertos Business Luncheon

The Grand Prairie Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will host a Day of the Dead Lunch for just $25 a ticket (non-member ticket price). Location: Uptown Theater. November 1, 2023, 11:30am to 1pm. Tickets can be purchased online.

Dia de Los Muertos Fiesta Latina (Free)

The Grand Prairie Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will also be hosting a free Day of the Dead Fiesta at the Uptown Theater and will feature art displays, traditional food, vendor booths, and a Catrina contest. November 2, 2023, 4pm to 9pm. RSVP here.

Houston

Candlelight Open-Air Concert: Dia de los Muertos – Celebrating the Day of the Dead with Mariachi

Immerse yourself in a symphony of sounds at The Houston Arboretum! The event will feature traditional folk songs, music from Latino artists like Juan Gabriel, the heartfelt tune “Remember Me” from Disney’s Coco, and of course, the Adelaide Pilar Mariachi Band.

Doors open one hour before the performance begins. Individuals under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. November 2, 2023, 6:30pm & 8:45pm. Online tickets start at $55.

Sam Houston Park (Free)

There will be live music, delicious concessions, arts and crafts, and a community procession of remembrance. You are encouraged to come in your El Catrin and La Catrina make-up and outfits.

Current police officers, military members, and First Responders are encouraged to come in their uniform. Attendees are also encouraged to bring photos of their loved ones or special objects to honor those they’ve lost. November 4, 2023, 2pm to 10pm. RSVP here.

MECA’s Dia de Muertos Festival (Free)

This celebration combines pre-Colombian heritage and Catholic influences. There will be arts and crafts, an ofrenda exhibition, festival foods, and three stages with performances by MECA Ballet Folklórico, EZ Band, Grupo Aliados and more! Location: 900 Kane St. October 28 & 29, 2023, 11am to 7pm both days.

Jones Hall

In a vibrant celebration of Day of the Dead, Grammy and Latin Grammy Award winner, Lila Downs will be performing. She’ll be accompanied by folklórico dancing, mariachi music, visual projections, and more. October 19, 2023, 7:30pm. Tickets can be purchased online starting at $29.

Neon de Los Muertos

Indulge in a feast of tacos and more, while non-food vendors offer jewelry and rave apparel. Get your face painted and enjoy six DJs spanning multiple genres, including magnetic beats from Conexus, Astral, Slabb, Uggz, Chiwah, and Tazmayne.

Capture memories at the photo booth station by Lotus Springs and flaunt your creativity in the costume contest. Location: 7700 Pinemont Dr. November 3, 2023, 9pm to 5am. Parking is available in the next building. Tickets can be purchased online for $16.

Four people in skull make-up posing for a photo

Plant-based Potluck at First UU Church (Free)

In honor of the species we’ve lost due to extinction, the Climate Action Team at First UU Church will be hosting a plant-based potluck that will include homemade, vegan mole enchiladas. There will also be an ofrenda in their honor. October 27, 2023, 6:30pm to 8:30pm. RSVP here.

The East Aldine District (Free)

Embrace the spirit of Day of the Dead and the vibes of fall at this local Texas Dia de Los Muertos Fall Festival! Prepare for music, live entertainment, and array of food. Get lost in the pumpkin patch, hop on a hayride, and explore the haunted house. Don’t miss the chance to showcase your creativity in the costume contest too! October 28, 2023, 11am to 3pm.

Irving

Day of the Dead Networking Mixer

Prepare for a night of cultural celebration and professional networking at the GNTHCC Dia de Los Muertos Mixer, perfect for entrepreneurs, professionals, and anyone looking to expand their network.

Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine, delightful refreshments, and capture memories in the Day of the Dead-themed photo booth. Plus, don’t miss your chance to enter exciting raffles for fantastic prizes. Location: 400 E Las Colinas Blvd. October 26, 6pm to 8 pm. Tickets for non-members are $10. Members will receive free entry.

Painting Party at Mesa Mezcal

No prior painting experience is necessary, as a talented paint instructor will guide you step-by-step as you create your very own Day of the Dead masterpiece. Tap into your creativity by dressing in colorful attire, themed accessories, and calavera make-up too!

Tickets start at $68 and include all the necessary supplies, a glass of house wine, a Chef’s Charcuterie Board, complimentary parking, and themed party favors. November 2, 2023, 7pm to 10pm.

Related Posts: Where to Celebrate Day of the Dead in Dallas

Katy

Four-Course Meal at Ambriza Katy

Ambriza Katy will be hosting a four-course meal for just $85 per person in celebration of Day of the Dead in Texas. November 2, 2023.

Laredo

Pozole Cooking Contest & 5K Glow Run at North Central Park

Get ready for a flavorful and vibrant celebration in Laredo, hosted by the City of Laredo and District 6 Council member Dr. Tyler King. If you’re up for some active fun, join the 5K glow run and light up the night in style. Or, enter the Catrina dress-up contest! Don’t forget to sample all of the creations at the Pozole cooking contest!

It’ll be a day filled with food, fun, and festivities that you won’t want to miss! November 4, 2023, 1:00pm to 10:00pm. Click here to sign-up for the 5K and/or the cooking contest.

Lewisville

Lewisville Thrive (Free)

This event is open to all, whether you are already familiar with the holiday or just curious to learn more about Day of the Dead. There will be cultural delights like traditional food, music, and dancing.

Guests are invited to bring a picture of loved ones or an offering to contribute to the community ofrenda. November 2, 2023, 5pm to 7pm.

El Patio Mex-Tex Restaurant (Free)

Immerse yourself in Mexican culture with a showcase by incredible, local artists, including face-painting by Elvia Polo, Catrinas by Anel Anaya, handmade goods from Amor A Mexico Boutique, and live music by Mariachi Nochistalan. October 29, 2023, 11am to 3pm.

Longview

Heritage Plaza (Free)

Longview’s 2nd Annual Day of the Dead Festival will be filled with food trucks, activities, face painting, music, contests, a kid’s art table, and much more! Join in the parade and walk in memory of your loved ones. Feel free to wear traditional attire as well! November 4, 2023, 4:30pm to 8:15pm.

Child getting their face painted with Catrina make-up

Lubbock

Teens Corona Workshop at Lubbock Public Library

Discover the artistic traditions of Day of the Dead and pay homage to La Catrina, an iconic figure in Mexican folk art. La Catrina is a symbol deeply rooted in these celebrations, and you can embrace her legend by crafting your own Day of the Dead Corona AKA flower crowns. Local artist Leticia Barron will guide you through the process.

Registration opens on October 1st. Call 775-2835 to reserve your spot. October 24, 2023, 6pm to 8pm.

McAllen

Day of the Dead Celebration (Free)

Experience a heartwarming and family-friendly Day of the Dead Celebration in Texas hosted by the Chick-fil-A at 27th & Nolana. Gather your family for dinner while enjoying festive music and fun face painting activities for the kids.

Attendees are also welcome to decorate a 4×6 frame, which will be placed on the community ofrenda. Be sure to bring a copy of a photo of a loved one with you to place in the frame. Location: 2709 W Nolana Ave. November 2, 2023, 5pm to 8pm.

McKinney

Dr. Glenn Mitchell Memorial Park (Free)

This local Day of the Dead celebration in McKinney, Texas will feature music, dance, art, crafts, Catrin and Catrina contests, vendor booths, and delicious food for the whole family! Get your face painted and bring the kiddos by for some engaging activities just for them! There will also be a Memory Tree and Monarch quotes. October 14, 2023, 12pm to 9pm. Click here for the performance schedule. Click here to enter into the costume contest.

Procession through a city street with people dressed in Catrina costumes and make-up and a large, skeletal marionette behind them

Nacogdoches

Downtown Nacogdoches (Free)

Celebrate Day of the Dead with Visit Nacogdoches at their 10th annual celebration. There will be music, dance, vendors, food, and drink. Location: 200 E Main St. November 4, 2023, 4pm to 8pm.

New Braunfels

Downtown New Braunfels (Free)

Join in the vibrant celebration of Hispanic culture at New Braunfels’ Day of the Dead Festival! Held annually on the fourth Saturday of October, the city’s festivities promise to enchant visitors with a blend of kid’s activities, live music, dance performances, food trucks, arts & crafts, talented face painters, vendors, and an opportunity for shopping in downtown New Braunfels. October 28th, 2023, 12pm to 10:00pm.

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Pearland

Cole’s Flea Market

Get ready to celebrate Day of the Dead in style at Cole’s Flea Market! This celebration promises a day filled with food, drinks, and entertainment that will keep you entertained from morning till night. November 4, 2023, 8am to 5pm.

Plano

The Shops at Willow Bend (Free)

Celebrate Day of the Dead with a burst of vibrant colors and festive fun at The Shops at Willow Bend! Presented by Mexican Bar Co., this event will feature a beautiful performance of traditional ballet folklórico, a mariachi band, and a variety of Latino vendors offering everything from marigold flower crowns to delicious aquas frescas.

For the little ones, Crayola Experience will have an interactive coloring experience, while Mexican Bar Co. will have an honorary altar on display and a specialty flaming cocktail, La Ofrenda Margarita, to commemorate Day of the Dead. Don’t forget to visit the candy skull face painting station and take pictures with real Coco characters!

The celebration culminates in a Coco movie screening at 7:30pm. October 28, 2023, beginning at 4:00pm.

Round Rock

Centennial Plaza

The 10th Anniversary Day of the Dead Celebration, hosted by Round Rock Ballet Folklórico in collaboration with the City of Round Rock and Univision, will offer live music, delicious cuisine, vendor booths, and craft activities for the kiddos. Moreover, the event will host a variety of exciting contests for visitors to participate in. November 4, 2023, 12pm to 9pm.

San Angelo

Bill Aylor Sr. Memorial/San Angelo Riverstage

The Day of the Dead celebration in San Angelo, Texas lasts two days and will include a car show where each one will have an ofrenda inside their trunk, a Day of the Dead fashion show, a Catrina contest, and more! There will also be an art exhibition at Coop Gallery on October 19- 21, 2023. Register your ride online to participate in the Day of the Dead Car Show. The two-day event will occur October 20 at 6pm to October 21, 2023 at 9pm. See their website for the full event schedule.

San Angelo Museum of Fine Art Fun Run

Join the vibrant celebration with a unique twist – lace up your running shoes and honor your dearly departed at the Day of the Dead 5K and 10K. The route will begin at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Art and will follow the San Angelo Riverwalk, a single out-and-back loop.

San Antonio

Free Community Events at La Villita

La Villita will feature face painting, margarita trucks, a Remembrance Wall, and so much more for your enjoyment over the course of downtown San Antonio’s celebration of Day of the Dead. October 27-29, 2023.

Parade Watch Party at Hotel Contessa

Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails at Hotel Contessa will host a parade pre-party with music, face painting, tequila cocktails, and vendors. And don’t miss out on the chance to get a front-row seat to the Day of the Dead River Parade! Reserve your tickets now for an unforgettable night! October 27, 2023, 5pm to 7pm.

Day of the Dead River Parade

Embrace the enchantment of Day of the Dead at Texas’ iconic San Antonio River Walk. In the evening, the Day of the Dead River Parade will feature 26 beautifully adorned barges, each representing a different figure or tradition associated with this beloved holiday. October 27, 2023, 7pm to 8:30pm. Tickets for the parade can be purchased online.

River float with people dressed in Catrin and Catrina makeup and costumes. It's nighttime and it's surrounded by highlights in the trees and in the background
Photo by Visit San Antonio

Related Posts: What to Expect at the San Antonio’s Day of the Dead Festival

Mission Marquee Plaza (Free)

In this celebration, the descendants of the city’s historic Missions will gather and tell tales of family and community that span generations. You are welcome to participate by sharing photos and memories of your loved ones in a special remembrance tribute at Mission Marquee Plaza. There will also be activities on-site.

Please submit digital photos with clearly labeled name by Monday, October 16, 2023, to WorldHeritage@sanantonio.gov. These heartfelt contributions will be displayed on the big screen during the event. October 28, 2023, 3pm to 10pm. Event will begin at 3pm at Mission San Jose before moving to the Mission Marquee Plaza.

Day of the Dead Music Festival at Arneson Amphitheater

Come out to the Arneson Amphitheater for live music from artists across Texas and Mexico, including Mariachi Campanas de America, Tequila Rock Revolution, and Ever Ramirez y su grupo, as a part of the Day of the Dead Concert Series. October 28, 2023, 7pm to 11pm. Tickets can be purchased here or at the door.

Day of the Dead Festival at Hemisfair Park (Free)

This beloved event returns for a two-day, in-person extravaganza that promises to be a memorable experience for all! Prepare to be enchanted by a diverse array of festivities, including live music, original artwork, a captivating dance, drum and puppet procession, live poetry performances, and the largest open altar exhibition in San Antonio! There will also be food and beverage vendors on-site. October 28-29, 2023. See their website for the event schedule and to download their app.

Planet K Fireworks Show & Vendor Market (Free)

The Texas Fireworks Day of the Dead Celebration, hosted by Planet K, welcomes you to partake in a soul-stirring experience. The celebration will take place at Woodlawn Lake Park and will include face painting, live art exhibits, and a moving memorial balloon release.

There will also be vendor booths, activities for the kids, a vintage car parade, and on-site food trucks. But the grand finale is what truly sets this celebration apart. Brace yourself for one of the biggest fireworks shows in all of Texas! November 2, 2023, 4pm to 8:30pm.

Centro Cultural Aztlan “Altares y Ofrendas”

Step into the enchanting world of remembrance at the 46th Annual “Altares y Ofrendas” exhibition, hosted by Centro Cultural Aztlan. There will also be a “Callejon de Los Muertos” Artisan Market in the breezeway with products from San Antonio’s most popular artists and craftspeople. The exhibit will be unveiled at the opening reception on November 2 (6pm to 9pm) and will be on display through November 8, 2023.

Photos by Visit San Antonio

San Marcos

5K Run/Walk at Hernandez Elementary School

Come and participate in San Marcos’ 10th Annual Day of the Dead 5K Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run! The event supports the Johnnie T. Rosales Memorial Scholarship, which benefits San Marcos High School seniors.

Honor the memory of your loved ones by sponsoring a Memory Board at the race or featuring their name and photo on the altar. Capture your moments with local photographer Rick Martinez. The race will begin at Hernandez Elementary School and feel free to wear your favorite Day of the Dead attire. October 28, 2023, 8am. Register online here.

Seguin

The Backyard (Free)

Join the spooky fun at Dia de Los Halloween at The Backyard in Seguin. This family event promises an unforgettable day filled with trick-or-treating, live music, a selfie photo station, community ofrenda, night market, and an adult, kid, and pet costume contest. Guests are encouraged to bring a photo to add to the ofrenda. October 21, 2023, begins at 5pm.

Spring

Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts

Mark your calendars for a vibrant celebration of Day of the Dead with an outdoor art market, storytime & craft sessions, free art activities, and complimentary face painting. The highlight of the day will be captivating performances by Ballet Folklórico and Aztec Dance groups.

One of the most touching aspects of this celebration is the public ofrenda where visitors are encouraged to bring art, photos, and items to honor and remember their loved ones who have passed away. October 28th, 2023, 10am to 2pm.

Ofrenda with lit candles, flowers, calaveras, and a skeleton

Sugar Land

Sugar Land Town Square (Free)

The Sugar Land Day of the Dead Celebration promises an array of cultural delights, including traditional mariachi music, mesmerizing Ballet Folklórico performances, and the vibrant energy of Aztec dancers.

Savor Hispanic cuisine, explore cultural art exhibitions, get your face painted, shop at the artisan market, and watch your little ones enjoy exciting children’s activities. You can also participate in the adult costume contest! October 21, 2023, 12pm to 5pm.

The Colony

Grandscape (Free)

Experience the magic of Day of the Dead at the Topo Chico Hard Seltzer Stage & Lawn. There will be live entertainment featuring Mariachi Rosas Divinas, Mexico 2000 Ballet Folklórico, and the Latin Party Band.

Be sure to explore and indulge in delicious treats from food vendors, get your face painted, and be enchanted by stilt walkers and a tarot card reader. Feeling crafty? Stop by the tissue flower craft station and create your own colorful tribute. You can also find beautiful flowers from local vendors to add to your own ofrenda. November 2, 2023, 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

Vintage

Four-Course Meal at Ambriza Vintage

Ambriza Vintage will be hosting a four-course meal for just $85 per person in celebration of Day of the Dead. October 26, 2023.

Waco

Downtown Waco (Free)

The 3rd Annual Day of the Dead celebration in Waco will be one of the biggest in its history, starting off with a lively parade through downtown. The route will end at Indian Spring Park, where you will discover local art, Folklórico dancers, musical performances, and an artisan vendor market. There will also be food trucks, activities like sugar skull decorating, and Calavera face painting. October 28, 2023, 4pm to 10pm.

Waxahachie

Gateway Memorial Park

This family-friendly event is a heartfelt opportunity to celebrate and honor the memory of your loved ones. The day will be filled with touching moments, from the release of butterflies to the harmonious melodies of mariachis. Local elementary schools will showcase their talents and there will be a community ofrenda you’re welcome to contribute to.

There will also be face painting, a photo booth, local vendors, and a mask-making station for the kids. Dressing up in true Day of the Dead fashion is encouraged. Your loved one doesn’t have to be buried here to participate either! Marigold flowers will be available for you to take home and place on their graves or on your home ofrendas.

You’re reminded to take your framed photos home with you at the end of the event and you’re encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. November 1, 2023, 6pm.

Related Posts: Best Fall Festivals & Pumpkin Patches in Texas

Where to Celebrate Day of the Dead Across Texas: Final Thoughts

The celebration of Day of the Dead in Texas is a testament to our state’s rich cultural diversity and deep appreciation for tradition. From the border to the heart of our major cities, Texans come together to honor their ancestors and celebrate life with all kinds of events! However, they also serve as a reminder that life and death are interconnected, and through these celebrations, the memories of our loved ones can continue to live on.

Click the button below to shop our Texas Latina collection in support of local businesses this Dia de Los Muertos!

Last Updated 1 month ago by Jessica Serna | Published: October 12, 2023

2 Responses
  • Andrea G
    October 12, 2023

    What about Dallas? Are they doing any parade for Dia de los Muertos?

    • Jessica Serna
      October 12, 2023

      We have it linked in the blog post as a related post 🙂