On October 18, 2025, San Antonio, Texas, launched its largest-ever Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festival, ushering in a six-week “Spirit Season” celebration that honors the city’s deep cultural roots and vibrant Mexican-American traditions. The festival, a significant cultural event for the community, is designed to reflect the rich history and heritage of Día de los Muertos, a holiday that pays tribute to deceased loved ones through art, music, food, and community gatherings.
San Antonio’s Día de los Muertos festival has grown in size and scope over the years, becoming one of the largest and most anticipated events of its kind in the United States. The celebration brings together people from all walks of life to commemorate and remember those who have passed, while also showcasing the city’s rich traditions. Through an array of activities, attendees are invited to experience the joy and reverence that the holiday represents, including vibrant parades, elaborate altars, artistic exhibits, and traditional performances. These events not only celebrate the lives of those who have passed, but also highlight the ongoing cultural contributions of the Mexican-American community to the broader American mosaic.
The expanded festival, which spans six weeks, underscores the growing recognition and appreciation of Día de los Muertos across the U.S. In San Antonio, the festivities are particularly meaningful, as the city has long been a hub for Mexican-American culture. Visitors can explore a variety of artistic displays, including painted calaveras (skulls), colorful papel picado (cut-paper decorations), and altars dedicated to honoring the deceased. Additionally, music and dance performances rooted in Mexican folklore, along with a wide variety of traditional foods, offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the celebration.
This year’s festival is a reflection of the continued evolution and expansion of Día de los Muertos celebrations beyond its traditional Mexican roots. The event has garnered growing attention, with cities across the U.S. increasingly adopting and celebrating the holiday as an opportunity to reflect on the cycles of life, death, and remembrance.
The Spirit Season in San Antonio, as it is now being called, offers both locals and visitors an opportunity to come together in unity and celebration. It highlights not only the importance of Día de los Muertos but also the city’s role as a living testament to Mexican-American culture, ensuring that the traditions of the past are honored and carried forward for generations to come. This largest-ever Día de los Muertos festival is a testament to the city’s enduring cultural vitality and its ability to celebrate diversity while honoring its deep historical roots.