
Muertos Fest: A Celebration Found in Community Spirit
San Antonio’s largest Día de los Muertos celebration, Muertos Fest, is set to return to Hemisfair from October 24 to 26, 2025. With a newly expanded lineup of activities, this year’s festival promises to be unforgettable, featuring a musical tribute to the iconic Flaco Jiménez. The tribute, titled ¡Presente! A Night to Remember, recognizes the profound impact Jiménez has had on Tejano music and the cultural tapestry of the city.
Expanding Traditions with Hometown Flair
For the festival’s 13th iteration, attendees can explore over 80 beautifully decorated ofrendas, or altars, honoring loved ones who have passed. The opening night will offer a sensory-friendly altar viewing experience from 5 PM to 7 PM, before kicking off the evening’s music tribute at 8 PM. Organizers expect more than 100,000 attendees throughout the weekend, evidencing the event’s status as the largest celebration of its kind in the U.S.
The Heart of the Festival: Musical Elements
Curated by cultural advocate Juan Tejeda and supported by musician Max Baca, the tribute lineup includes renowned acts such as David Hidalgo and Cesar Rosas of Los Lobos, along with many other revered musicians. This celebration of Jiménez's legacy promises to elevate not just music, but also the spirit of community and cultural pride among attendees.
Beyond the Music: Activities for All Ages
Muertos Fest is more than just a concert; it's a vibrant cultural mosaic. Beyond the music stages, the festival includes hands-on workshops, artistic displays, food vendors, and children's activities. Attendees can also participate in the traditional processions honoring musical legends, which are scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday. These processions honor various cultural icons within the Tejano music community—an essential element of the festival’s family-friendly atmosphere.
A Cultural Exchange and Artistic Showcase
Additionally, this year features a brand-new pop-up bookstore by Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico San Antonio, geared toward sharing literature and cultural heritage through various mediums. Artists and vendors from around the region will showcase their work, further enhancing the festival's emphasis on supporting local businesses. This initiative not only uplifts artists but helps to fortify community ties, reinforcing the festival’s role as a bastion for cultural exchange.
Community Engagement and Benefits
Commissioners and community leaders recognize the significance of Muertos Fest, with comments reflecting a commitment to honoring tradition while fostering a spirit of inclusivity. Bexar County Commissioner Justin Rodriguez emphasized the festival's meaningful role in San Antonio’s cultural calendar, inviting residents and visitors alike to engage in this respectful celebration of life and memory.
Why Your Attendance Matters
Participating in Muertos Fest not only allows you to celebrate your own loved ones but also shows support for local artists and vendors who rely on community events like these for economic sustainability. Each ticket purchased, each ofrenda viewed, and each song sung contributes to the cultural vitality of San Antonio. With increased traffic expected, attendees are encouraged to use VIA’s park-and-ride service, ensuring everyone can comfortably join in the festivities.
Join the Celebration
This year’s Muertos Fest will undoubtedly celebrate the indelible legacies left by those who came before us, spurred by a commitment to community and togetherness. Through lively music, artistic displays, and cherished traditions, attendees will take part in a uniquely enriching experience that honors life and culture. For more information on event schedules and how to be part of the festivities this year, visit the Muertos Fest website.
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