As Dia de Los Muertos, a tradition of celebrating departed loved ones and their time on earth that goes back centuries, approaches, San Antonio is hosting a series of cultural events in Downtown San Antonio. Events range from a river parade to self-guided tours. Here’s a roundup of Dia de los Muertos events happening in Downtown San Antonio. This list is not comprehensive. Event details are subject to change.

Day of the Dead San Antonio River Parade

Attendees can enjoy San Antonio’s Day of the Dead River Parade. The event will feature floats with altars and dancing catarinas, which are skeleton-like figures in vivid makeup and bright costumes.

• Oct. 24, 7 p.m.
• $24-$123
• La Villita, 418 Villita St., San Antonio and along the River Walk
• www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events/day-of-the-dead-san-antonio

Muertos Fest at Hemisfair

Located at Hemisfair Park, Muertos Fest is a three-day celebration, featuring live music and entertainment, original artwork, a procession with dancing, drums and puppets, live poetry, vendors, food and drink, and the largest open altar exhibition in San Antonio.

• Oct. 24, 5-11 p.m.; Oct. 25 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Oct. 26, noon-9 p.m.
• Free
• Hemisfair Park, 434 S Alamo St., San Antonio
• www.muertosfest.com

Dia de los Muertos at Historic Market Square

The Historic Market Square will host a two-day event honoring the Mexican tradition of Dia de Los Muertos with a variety of cultural activities, featuring traditional altars, face painting and live music. Las Monas Cultural Dance Procession, a fusion of dance and storytelling, will be held both days from 1-2 p.m.

• Oct. 25-26, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Free
• 514 W. Commerce St., San Antonio
• www.marketsquaresa.com/events

Self-Guided Dia de los Muertos Altar Tour

Attendees can take a self-guided tour of Dia de los Muertos altars, or ofrendas, at the Historic Market Square. These altars are designed to celebrate memories, and highlight departed loved ones' time on earth.

• Daily through Nov. 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m
• Free
• 514 W. Commerce St., San Antonio
• www.marketsquaresa.com/events

Calaveras de Azucar Festival

The festival features altars, live music and local vendors. It’s a joyful gathering for families and friends to celebrate the spirit of Dia de los Muertos. The event is hosted by the Market Square Farmers Market Association.

• Nov. 1, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 2, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Free
• 514 W. Commerce St., San Antonio
• www.marketsquaresa.com/events

Dia de los Muertos at La Villita Events

From Friday to Sunday, La Villita will host a fiesta featuring live music, food, and family-friendly activities honoring Dia de los Muertos traditions. Attendees can take a picture with the second largest Calavera Catrina in the world; enjoy 20 colorful alebrije, or spirit-animals; and view 10 giant, hand-painted calaveras in the historic village.

• Oct. 24, 3-11 p.m.; Oct. 25, noon-11 p.m.; Oct. 26, noon-8 p.m.
• Free
• 418 Villita St., San Antonio
• www.dayofthedeadsa.com