Where to Celebrate Day of the Dead Across Texas in 2026

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!

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Amarillo

Día de Muertos Festival (DODFest)

DODFest invites families and the community to celebrate Día de Muertos through traditional Mexican music, folklórico dancing, colorful ofrendas, Catrina costumes, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy cultural performances, local food, and meaningful traditions honoring loved ones in a lively festival atmosphere. October 24, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Starlight Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Admission is $15, and children under 12 enter free.

Angleton

Día de los Muertos Student Art Exhibit

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at the Brazoria County Historical Museum in Angleton! This special exhibit showcases original artwork by local students in grades 6–12, inspired by the traditions, symbolism, and vibrant culture of Día de los Muertos. Visitors can explore how young artists express their heritage and creativity through paintings, drawings, and other artwork. October 24 to November 27, 2026, during regular museum hours. Admission is free.

Austin

Moody Amphitheatre (Free)

The Día de los Muertos Festival at Moody Amphitheater in Waterloo Park celebrates Mexican culture and honors loved ones who have passed away. Enjoy an evening of traditional music and dance performances, colorful community ofrendas, Calavera face painting, live art, local Latinx artisan vendors, and delicious food and drinks. This free, family-friendly celebration brings the community together to experience the beauty and traditions of Día de los Muertos. November 1, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Downtown Austin’s Viva la Vida Festival (Free)

Mexic-Arte Museum’s 43rd Annual Viva la Vida Festival & Parad e is Austin’s largest and longest-running Día de los Muertos celebration. This vibrant downtown festival brings Mexican culture and art to life with a grand procession featuring colorful costumes, traditional dancers, decorated floats, and live music. Visitors can also enjoy hands-on art activities, traditional Mexican food, local artists and vendors, a lowrider exhibition, and live performances throughout the day. This free, family-friendly event is a wonderful way to experience the traditions and creativity of Día de los Muertos. October 24, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Catrin characters dressed in brightly colored suits

Nighttime parade with huge skeleton marionettes

Woman in Catrina make-up, gloves that make her hands look skeletal

Mitte Cultural District

Brownsville

Get ready for Fiesta de Vida, a Día de los Muertos-inspired celebration at Brownsville’s historic Old City Cemetery. This special evening honors loved ones through a community ofrenda, traditional mariachi music, folklórico dance performances, and guided cemetery tours that share the stories of those laid to rest there. Guests can also enjoy local food and drinks while celebrating Mexican heritage, remembrance, and community traditions.

October 24, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Old City Cemetery, 543 E. Madison Street, Brownsville, Texas.

Bryan

Lorefest – Día de los Muertos

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Lorefest in Bryan, Texas! This family-friendly event invites guests to honor and remember loved ones through a creative shoebox diorama activity. Enjoy free snacks, face painting, and live music while learning about traditions that celebrate the lives and memories of those who have passed. October 27, 2026, from 7pm to 9pm at The Kimbell Cultural Centre, 607 N Main St., Bryan, TX.

Corpus Christi

Downtown Corpus Christi (Free)

The Día de los Muertos Street Festival returns to downtown Corpus Christi for its 19th year, bringing Mexican heritage and community traditions to life! Wander through vibrant streets filled with live music, traditional dance performances, colorful ofrendas honoring loved ones who have passed, and local art. Enjoy authentic Mexican food, browse handmade crafts from local vendors, and take part in family-friendly activities, including face painting and arts and crafts. With multiple entertainment stages and cultural displays throughout downtown, it’s a wonderful way to celebrate the spirit of Día de los Muertos. October 24, 2026, from 1:00 PM to midnight. Admission is free.

Dallas

Day of the Dead Celebration in Dallas in 2026

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in D allas with a wonderful lineup of cultural events honoring loved ones through art, music, dance, and community traditions! Visit the Bath House Cultural Center for its 40th Annual Día de Muertos Exhibition, featuring artwork and altar installations from local and national artists. Explore the Día de los Muertos Festival and Exhibition at the Latino Cultural Center, where community-created ofrendas celebrate the lives of those who have passed. You can also enjoy the lively Dallas Día de los Muertos Parade and Festival, complete with colorful costumes, live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and a festive procession through downtown. For another memorable experience, catch the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s Día de los Muertos concert, featuring vibrant music and traditional Mexican dance.

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos in Dallas - Day of the Dead (

Denison

Downtown Denison (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in historic downtown Denison with a lively festival honoring Mexican heritage, art, and traditions! Explore colorful ofrendas and artistic window displays throughout the downtown district, then head to Heritage Park for a day filled with live music, traditional dance performances, and a festive parade featuring giant puppets. Browse the Arts and Crafts Mercado for unique handmade items, enjoy delicious food and drinks from local vendors, and take in performances by mariachi musicians, Aztec dancers, Mayan dancers, and folklórico groups. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the lives of loved ones while enjoying the welcoming atmosphere of downtown Denison.

November 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free. The festival takes place at Heritage Park, 324 W. Main Street, Denison, TX 75020.

Woman singing on stage with colorful paper surrounding her

Giant Catrin marionette with a man posing in front of it

Ballet folklorico dancers dancing on the street surrounded by festive decor

Photos by Discover Denison

Denton

Downtown Denton (Free)

Celebrate fall at Denton’s annual Day of the Dead Festival, a family-friendly event combining Día de los Muertos traditions, Halloween fun, and autumn festivities. Enjoy live music, traditional dance, food vendors, local arts and crafts, coffin races, and the colorful Twilight Lantern Parade. The weekend also features Cirque du Horror and the Pinebox Derby, offering even more entertainment for visitors of all ages. October 22–25, 2026, with the main festival on October 24 from 11 AM to 9 PM in downtown Denton.

Crowd of concert goers in front of a stage that says "Day of the Dead Texas Festival" on it — *Photos by Discover Denton*

A couple wearing Calavera make-up — *Photos by Discover Denton*

El Paso

Downtown El Paso (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in downtown El Paso at the annual Día de los Muertos Desfile & Festival! This vibrant, family-friendly celebration honors loved ones through colorful ofrendas, cultural exhibits, traditional dance, live music, and local art. Browse artisan and farmers market vendors, enjoy Mexican food and antojitos, and join the excitement of the spectacular parade featuring decorated floats, folklórico performers, musicians, and community groups. With free arts and cultural activities throughout the Downtown Arts District, it’s a wonderful way to experience the traditions and community spirit of Día de los Muertos. October 24, 2026, from 11 AM to 9 PM, with the parade beginning at 4 PM. Admission is free.

Concordia Cemetery

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at historic Concordia Cemetery, where cultural traditions and remembrance come together in a lively community gathering. The annual festival features decorated altars, live music and entertainment, a Catrina/Catrín costume contest, a high school mariachi competition, local vendors, and food. Visitors can enjoy the colorful festivities while honoring loved ones and exploring one of El Paso’s most historic cemeteries. October 10, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Reported admission was $8 for adults, $4 for students, and free for children ages 6 and under.

Elgin

Downtown Elgin (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in historic downtown Elgin with a family-friendly festival honoring Mexican culture, remembrance, and community traditions. Past celebrations have featured a colorful parade, traditional mariachi music, folklórico and Aztec dancers, fire performances, sugar skull decorating, arts and crafts, and local food and market vendors. Visitors can also explore community altars and enjoy activities for all ages while celebrating the lives of loved ones. November 1 from 5-10 p.m. in downtown Elgin.

Fort Worth

La Gran Plaza de Fort Worth (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at La Gran Plaza de Fort Worth with a special event honoring loved ones through culture, remembrance, and tradition. Visitors can enjoy a community celebration featuring music and cultural entertainment while reflecting on the meaning of this cherished Mexican holiday. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and celebrate the lives and memories of those who have passed. November 1, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Admission is free.

Galveston

Old County Courthouse (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Galveston’s annual Fiesta, presented by LULAC Council 151! This family-friendly celebration honors Mexican heritage and the memories of loved ones through a colorful parade, traditional Aztec and folklórico dancers, live music, and a festive community atmosphere. Explore the altar and ofrendas, browse local arts and crafts vendors, and enjoy delicious food while celebrating this meaningful cultural tradition. October 31, 2026. The parade begins at 1:00 PM, with food, merchandise vendors, and festivities continuing through 9:00 PM.

Garland

Granville Arts Center (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in Garland with a lively community festival honoring loved ones through art, music, and cultural traditions. Enjoy live performances, explore student and community ofrendas, and admire the juried art exhibit at the Granville Arts Center. Browse handmade goods at El Mercado, grab a bite from local food trucks, and join the festive atmosphere with a Catrín/Catrina costume contest and a closing cumbia performance by Los Komberz. Visitors can also bring a 4×6 photo of a loved one to add to the community altar. October 24, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Admission is free.

Grand Prairie

City Hall Main Street (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in downtown Grand Prairie with a vibrant community gathering honoring loved ones through Mexican culture and tradition. Enjoy cultural performances, browse food vendors, and take part in a festive procession celebrating the lives of those who have passed. The event also features a community altar where visitors can reflect and remember loved ones, bringing families and the community together for this meaningful celebration. November 1, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Admission and parking are free. The celebration takes place on the 200 block of West Main Street at City Hall Plaza.

Dia de Los Muertos Fiesta Latina

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in Grand Prairie with a cultural gathering honoring loved ones and the traditions behind this meaningful Mexican holiday. The Hispanic Heritage Ambassadors DFW have previously hosted celebrations at Uptown Theater featuring traditional music, cultural exhibits, local vendors, altars, and a Catrina costume contest. Grand Prairie’s free citywide Día de los Muertos event takes place on November 1, 2026, from 6 PM to 9 PM at City Hall Plaza.

Houston

Sam Houston Park (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Houston’s annual Día de los Muertos Festival and Parade, a vibrant community event honoring loved ones through music, art, and cultural traditions. Enjoy live performances, a colorful parade, delicious food, and family-friendly arts and crafts while joining the community in celebrating life and remembering those who have passed. The festival welcomes everyone to experience this meaningful tradition in the heart of downtown Houston. November 7, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby Street, Houston, TX. Admission is free.

Dow School in Houston’s Old Sixth Ward (Free)

Día de los Muertos at MECA’s annual festival at the historic Dow School in Houston’s Old Sixth Ward. The event honors the blend of Indigenous and Catholic traditions through colorful ofrendas, arts and crafts, cultural performances across three stages, community activities, and delicious festival food. Explore the beautiful altar displays and enjoy a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture, art, and remembrance.

October 31–November 1, 2026, from 11 AM to 7 PM. Admission is free.

Four people in skull make-up posing for a photo

Plant-based Potluck at First UU Church (Free)

Join First UU Church in Houston for a special Día de Muertos plant-based potluck honoring animal species lost to extinction. Enjoy vegan Mexican food, including mole enchiladas, and explore an ofrenda dedicated to extinct animals. The gathering also features a presentation by Ben Jones, Vice President of Conservation and Education at the Houston Zoo, offering insights into biodiversity loss and wildlife conservation. It’s a meaningful opportunity to share a meal, remember lost species, and learn how to help protect vulnerable wildlife. October 17, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Admission is free, but advance registration is requested.

The East Aldine District (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos and the fall season at the East Aldine District’s annual Día de los Muertos Fall Festival and Drone Show! Enjoy live entertainment, delicious local food, artisan vendors, and a beautiful community altar honoring loved ones who have passed. The family-friendly celebration brings the community together for an evening of culture, remembrance, and fun, with a spectacular drone show adding to the festivities. October 31, 2026. Admission is free.

Irving

Mandalay Canal Walk (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at the Las Colinas Day of the Dead Canalside Celebration in Irving, Texas. Presented by the U.S.-Mexico Cultural and Educational Foundation in partnership with the Las Colinas Association, this festive gathering honors Mexican traditions with a traditional ofrenda, live music, and delicious Mexican treats, including pan de muerto, tamales, guacamole, and sweets. It’s a lovely opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of Día de Muertos along the scenic Mandalay Canal. October 30, 2026, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Admission is free and open to the public.

Katy

Central Green Park

Get ready to celebrate Día de los Muertos at Central Green Park in Katy, Texas, during the annual Viva la Vida celebration. Enjoy an afternoon of Mexican culture and tradition featuring live music and dance performances by INTEMPO Dance Ensemble, inspired by the colorful world of Día de los Muertos. Bring your family and friends to honor loved ones and experience this festive community gathering. October 30, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM. Admission is free. Please note that glass containers, alcohol, and balls are not allowed on Central Green property.

Laredo

2nd Annual Pozole Cooking Contest & 5K Glow Run at North Central Park

Laredo’s Día de los Muertos celebrations bring together culture, remembrance, and community fun. For 2026, the Día de los Muertos X RotaRun Glow 5K is scheduled at North Central Park, welcoming runners, walkers, and families for an evening race. Participants are encouraged to wear glow gear or Día de los Muertos-inspired outfits. The race is part of the broader local celebration, but I could not verify a 2026 date for the pozole cooking contest or Catrina contest, so confirm those details before including them. November 7, 2026. The 5K starts at 7 PM; race registration is $30.

Child getting their face painted with Catrina make-up

Lubbock

Museum of Texas Tech University

Join the Día de los Muertos at the Museum of Texas Tech University with an afternoon of family-friendly art, music, food, and cultural traditions. Visitors can contribute copies of photos to a community ofrenda, take part in hands-on crafts and lotería, enjoy a nacho bar, pan dulce, and beverages, and watch performances by Mariachi los Matadores, the TTU Spanish Honor Society, and Ballet Folklórico Aztlán. Free planetarium shows are also scheduled throughout the afternoon. October 18, 2026, from 2 PM to 4 PM. Admission and parking are free.

McAllen

International Museum of Arts and Science

The International Museum of Art & Science celebrated Día de los Muertos with its annual festival on October 10, 2026. The event featured community altar displays, live performances, local artisan vendors, art activities, lotería, exhibit tours, and sugar-skull decorating for an additional fee. The museum’s Día de los Muertos altar exhibition is scheduled to remain on view through November 1, 2026, offering another opportunity to experience the tradition of honoring loved ones through art and remembrance.

McKinney

TUPPS Brewery (Free)

McKinney’s Día de los Muertos Festival is moving to a new venue in 2026! Join the community at TUPPS Brewery for a lively celebration featuring live music, mariachi, folklórico and Aztec dance performances, local artisan vendors, face painting, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can bring a photo of a loved one for the community ofrendas, create butterfly tributes, explore the artisan mercado, and enjoy the colorful Catrina contest. October 17, 2026, from noon to 9 PM. Admission is free. The festival has moved from Dr. Glenn Mitchell Memorial Park to TUPPS Brewery at 402 E. Louisiana Street.

Procession through a city street with people dressed in Catrina costumes

Nacogdoches

Downtown Square Nacogdoches (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in Nacogdoches during a weeklong series of community programs focused on altars, music, food, and dance. The Nacogdoches Public Library will host on October 31, 2026, offering opportunities to learn about and participate in the traditions of the holiday. All programs are free, although some require advance registration.

New Braunfels

Downtown New Braunfels (Free)

Join in the 10th Annual New Braunfels Día de los Muertos Festival in downtown New Braunfels! This family-friendly event honors loved ones through Mexican culture, music, and art, with three live music stages, mariachi, folklórico and Aztec dancers, an art exhibition, a community ofrenda, a procession, local vendors, and children’s activities. Visitors can also explore downtown shops and enjoy food from local vendors. October 17, 2026, from noon to 10 PM. Admission is free.

Pearland

North Main Street

Join South Park Funeral Home & Cemetery in Pearland for its annual Día de los Muertos Celebration, honoring loved ones through culture, music, and remembrance. The family-friendly gathering will feature a traditional altar, a remembrance ceremony, folklórico dancers, a DJ, local vendors, and other activities celebrating community and Mexican traditions. November 2, 2026, from 4 PM to 8 PM. Admission is free and open to the public. The event takes place at 1310 N. Main Street, Pearland.

Round Rock

Centennial Plaza

Round Rock’s 13th Annual Día de los Muertos Festival & Parade returns with a family-friendly celebration of Mexican culture, music, and remembrance. Enjoy live music, folklórico performances, food and artisan vendors, children’s crafts, contests, and cultural activities before joining the community procession honoring loved ones who have passed. November 7, 2026, from 3 PM to 10 PM. The procession begins at 5 PM. The event takes place at Lakeview Pavilion in Old Settlers Park, 3300 E. Palm Valley Boulevard. Admission is free.

San Angelo

Día de los Muertos Festival

San Angelo’s seventh annual Día de los Muertos Festival took place last October 10, 2026, at Bart DeWitt Park. The celebration included a Catrina, Catrín, and Alebrije contest, mariachi and dance performances, a car show, a fashion show, food trucks, craft vendors, children’s activities, a community altar, and a procession along the river.

San Antonio

Free Community Events at La Villita

La Villita Historic Arts Village will host its Day of the Dead San Antonio celebration from October 23–25, 2026. Expect a festive atmosphere with live music, cultural performances, food, giant alebrije sculptures, and the towering 38.5-foot La Catrina and El Catrín figures in Maverick Plaza. The celebration offers a colorful way to experience Día de los Muertos traditions in downtown San Antonio. Some activities are free, but the River Parade is a separate ticketed event. October 23–25, 2026.

Parade Watch Party at Hotel Contessa

Experience the magic of San Antonio’s iconic Day of the Dead River Parade from the best seats on the River Walk! Hotel Contessa invites you to an unforgettable evening filled with vibrant culture, music, and festive traditions on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

Day of the Dead River Parade

Experience one of San Antonio’s signature Día de los Muertos events as illuminated barges travel along the River Walk, decorated with vibrant artwork, altars, and symbols of remembrance. The parade brings Mexican cultural traditions to life with music, performers, and colorful displays honoring loved ones who have passed. October 23, 2026, at 7 PM.

River float with people dressed in Catrin and Catrina makeup and costumes — Photo by Visit San Antonio

Celebrate San Antonio Day of the Dead: Must-See Itinerary

Day of the Dead Festival at Hemisfair Park (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Muertos Fest, one of San Antonio’s largest cultural festivals. The multi-day event features more than 80 altars, live music and performances across multiple stages, dance and drum processions, artisan vendors, workshops, food, and activities for children. Friday begins with ¡Presente! A Night to Remember, followed by the main festival over the weekend. October 23–25, 2026. Admission is free and open to the public.

Centro Cultural Aztlan “Altares y Ofrendas”

Visit Centro Cultural Aztlan for its 49th Annual Día de los Muertos “Altares y Ofrendas” exhibition, featuring altars created by local artists and community members to honor loved ones. The opening reception will also include the Avenida de los Muertos artisan market, live music, pan de muerto, and other cultural offerings.

Opening reception: November 2, 2026, from 6 PM to 9 PM. The exhibition runs through November 12.

Multi-level ofrenda with flowers, candles, photos, and a Catrin sitting at the bottom — Photos by Visit San Antonio

A skeleton in a white dress under a gazebo - day of the dead texas — Photos by Visit San Antonio

San Marcos

5K Run/Walk at Hernandez Elementary School

Lace up your running shoes and celebrate Día de los Muertos 5K Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run on October 31, 2026, at Hernandez Elementary School in San Marcos, TX! This community celebration features a 5K run/walk and a kids fun run honoring the vibrant traditions of Day of the Dead.

Spring

Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos at the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts during its free Family Day. The event will feature an outdoor art market, food vendors, hands-on art activities, performances, and a community ofrenda where visitors can honor and remember loved ones. It’s a family-friendly way to explore the art and traditions associated with the holiday. October 31, 2026, from 10 AM to 2 PM. Admission is free, and no registration is required, though an RSVP is available.

Ofrenda with lit candles and flowers - day of the dead texas

Sugar Land

Sugar Land Town Square (Free)

Celebrate Hispanic heritage and Día de los Muertos at Sugar Land Town Square. Hosted by the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation, this family-friendly fiesta will feature live mariachi music, folklórico and Aztec dance performances, cultural presentations, children’s activities, local vendors, and food. It’s a lively afternoon of music, tradition, and community in the heart of Sugar Land. October 25, 2026, from noon to 5 PM. Complimentary parking is available in and around the Town Square garages.

Waco

Downtown Waco (Free)

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in downtown Waco at the annual community festival at Indian Spring Park. Enjoy traditional food, lively music, colorful art, and a free Kids Zone with hands-on activities, games, and family-friendly entertainment. The festival brings the community together to honor loved ones, celebrate culture, and enjoy a festive evening along the Brazos River. October 31, 2026, from 3 PM to 10 PM. Admission is free and open to all.