SAN ANTONIO — As we put away the Halloween decorations, the start of November brings a plethora of citywide Dia de los Muertos events and more that await in the weekend ahead.
Here are our top picks of activities you won’t want to miss. A bonus this week: All of them are free.
Catch up with 'Coco'
Bring the family out to The Rock at La Cantera on Friday for a free showing of "Coco," Pixar's tearjerker about a young musician who travels to the Land of the Dead.
The Oscar-winning film showcases Mexican heritage and culture, and highlights Dia de los Muertos through a fun and family-friendly musical adventure.
Make sure to bring your lawn chairs and blankets! There will be food and beverages available to purchase.
When: Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Rock at La Cantera (1 Spurs Way)
Cost: Free
Dia de los Muertos at the Pearl
On Saturday, visit the Pearl for a community celebration of Dia de los Muertos.
Honor the lives of loved ones who have passed while remembering their legacies. The event will feature ofrendas (altars), live music, art installations, children’s activities and more.
When: Saturday from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where : Pearl (303 Pearl Pkwy)
Cost: Free
Dia de los Muertos at The Rock at La Cantera
The Rock at La Cantera will host a free Day of the Dead celebration of its own on Saturday.
The event offers a chance for attendees to get into the spirit of the holiday, admire ofrendas in Frost Plaza, and dance to cumbia and mariachi music by headliner La Sonora Dinamita.
You can also be part of the digital ofrenda by emailing pictures of loved ones to therockatlacantera@legends.net.
When: Saturday from 5 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Where: The Rock at La Cantera (1 Spurs Way)
Cost: General admission tickets are free
Diwali SA
Experience the authentic traditions and culture of India right here in San Antonio while celebrating the triumph of light over darkness.
Diwali SA, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a vibrant celebration that began in 2009 as a way to honor the sister-city relationship between San Antonio and Chennai, India. The one-night festival showcases traditional Indian dance performances, delicious cuisine and authentic crafts.
Catch the ceremonial lighting of candles and watch them float down the River Walk. The night will close with a spectacular fireworks display.
When: Saturday
Where: Arneson River Theater at La Villita (418 Villita Street)
Cost: Free
Celebrando las Misiones
All are welcome to join and celebrate the lives of those who have passed as the City of San Antonio World Heritage Office hosts “Dia de los Muertos: Celebrando las Misiones.”
This free community event will begin with a blessing and procession at Mission San Jose followed by entertainment, music, activities, a special screening of “The Book of Life” and more at Mission Marquee Plaza.
When: Saturday from 3 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Where: Mission San Juan Granary (6701 San Jose Drive) / Mission Marquee Plaza (3100 Roosevelt Avenue)
Cost: Free
Plus…
Enjoy live harp music, small treats and beverages and participate in a tribute to loved ones in honor of Dia de los Muertos for the Main Plaza Conservancy “Mariposas on the Plaza.”
Catch acclaimed country band Midland as they take the stage at Boeing Center Tech Port on Saturday.
Finally, foster a deeper connection with nature and the community at NatureFest happening Saturday at Mission County Park. The event features kids’ activities, forest bathing and yoga, food trucks, art and more.
