San Antonio Celebrates Dia de los Muertos with Festive Altars and Culinary Delights
As autumn rolls in, San Antonio is gearing up for a vibrant series of Dia de los Muertos celebrations, honoring beloved family members and friends who have passed away. From October 26 to November 2, locals can immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of traditions, food, and memorable experiences that make this time of year truly special.
Rooftop Ofrendas and Live Music
One of the standout locations for festivities is the Thompson Hotel, which will feature stunning ofrendas, or altars, dedicated to those we miss. Nestled on the rooftop, guests will enjoy live music, delicious food, and stunning views of the city. The hotel lobby will also play host to an ofrenda, inviting visitors to stop by, pay tribute, and reflect on cherished memories.
If you’re looking for a picturesque place to celebrate, head over to the Thompson Hotel at 115 Lexington Ave. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere filled with community spirit!
Join the Fun at Mezquite
Nearby, the Pearl Brewery Market is keeping the party going with a fantastic four-day event at Mezquite, a Sonoran-inspired eatery. Kicking off on Halloween, families and friends can participate in an all-ages costume contest at 8 p.m. The whole celebration runs through Sunday, November 3, and promises activities like face painting, live DJs, mariachi bands, and mouthwatering signature bites from the restaurant.
The finale? A celebratory brunch on November 3 from noon to 4 p.m., designed to honor those we’ve lost in true Dia de Los Muertos fashion at 221 Newell Ave.
Celebratory Cocktails for the Occasion
Even drinks are getting in on the fun! At Ostra and Four Brothers—located in the Mokara and Omni la Mansion del Rio hotels—guests can savor specially crafted cocktails just for the season. The Muerto-Rita at Ostra features a unique dark appearance with traditional margarita flavors and a black salt rim. Meanwhile, over at Four Brothers, don’t miss the refreshing calavera citrus cocktail, topped with an edible sugar skull!
These drinks will be available from October 25 to November 2—perfect for adding some festive cheer to your celebrations. You can find them at 212 W. Crockett St. and 112 College St.
A River Parade to Remember
For an unforgettable experience, snag your tickets for the Hard Rock Cafe’s balcony viewing party for the Day of the Dead River Parade happening on October 25. Starting at 6:30 p.m., you’ll enjoy a chef-curated Tex-Mex buffet, live music, face painting, and a complimentary cocktail! With festivities running from 7:45 to 10 p.m., it’s a prime spot to witness the magic of the river parade at 111 W. Crockett St.
Creative Glam at Muertos Fest
Get ready to glam up at the Hemisfair-area event where Smirnoff is teaming up with the GlamSquad for a unique experience. Over the weekend of October 26 and 27, visitors can enjoy tasty Smirnoff spicy tamarind cocktails alongside special makeup touch-ups for a fun and festive look. This event is completely free and open to everyone—so feel free to stop by and enjoy the atmosphere at 434 S. Alamo St.
Honoring Legends at the InterContinental
Lastly, we can’t miss out on the sophisticated homage at the InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk Hotel. Here, a vanity-style ofrenda pays tribute to Joan Crawford, the iconic actress who began her career in San Antonio. Explore the hotel’s offerings, from Cavalier to High Praise and the Deco Bar, all while raising a glass to one of Hollywood’s legends—what better way to celebrate the past?
As we embrace this season of remembrance, San Antonio lights up in a celebration of life, culture, and community. Whether enjoying festive food, admiring artistic altars, or sipping on seasonal cocktails, everyone is invited to join in on the spirit of Dia de los Muertos.
