San Antonio’s annual Day of the Dead River Parade is making its grand return to the River Walk on Friday, October 24, and this year’s festivities will introduce two new experiences: A twice weekly seasonal cruise and a 5K rememberance walk.
Now in its 7th year of operation, the parade celebrates the cultural tradition of Día de Muertos through colorful barges decorated with calaveras (skulls), alebrijes (spirit guides), costumed riders, and much more. Portions of the River Walk will also be ornately decorated with themed calavera and alebrije sculptures with QR codes for passersby to learn more about their symbolic connection to the holiday.
The parade will begin its journey at Lexington Ave. at 7 pm, and is expected to pass through the Arneson River Theatre at 7:45 pm.
Parade seat tickets range from $18-$100, and general admission (standing room only) tickets are $14 per person. Tickets and a map of the route are available on the San Antonio River Walk website.
Visitors can also watch the parade from the free standing room only area located on E. Commerce St., which stretches to the end of the route. All standing room areas will not allow chairs to be brought in, and visitors should be mindful not to block or disrupt restaurant or business operations. The website also notes that strollers, ice chests, and carriers will not be allowed on the River Walk during the event.
The first of the new events adding to the Día de Muertos festivities is a River Walk boat cruise, called Rio De La Vida – Tradition Trail Tour. The tour starts on October 5, and will run on Tuesdays and Sundays until November 4. This 45-minute tour will educate guests about the history and symbolism of alebrijes, and their role in Día de Muertos tradition.
According to Carlton Quick, the director of operations at Go Rio River Cruises, the tour will act as “moving gallery of culture and imagination.”
“It’s a beautiful way to learn, sip and spot these extraordinary works up close,” he said in a release.
Though the parade is a week before, Día de Muertos falls on November 1-2.Photo courtesy of Visit San Antonio
Following the Day of the Dead River Parade on October 24, San Antonians can close out their weekend with the Calaverita Run 5K and Family Walk on Saturday, October 25, starting at 7 pm. This family friendly walk is a community-wide initiative to celebrate and remember friends and family that have passed away, and participants can wear a photo of their loved one on their race bib to honor their legacy. Visitors are encouraged to wear their best calavera-inspired outfit, write their loved one’s name on the “For Whom Do You Run” wall, and add a photo to the community altar.
Parade floats, music, and face painting stations can be found along the race route, and a local vendor and art market will be waiting for participants after they cross the finish line.
Visit San Antonio President and CEO Mario Bass said in a press release that the upcoming parade will be even more significant this year thanks to these new experiences.
“Each year, the Day of the Dead River Parade grows as a signature cultural event, bringing together locals and visitors to honor loved ones while experiencing the artistry and traditions of Día de los Muertos in a uniquely San Antonio way,” said Bass.
Tickets for the Rio De La Vida – Tradition Trail Tour are $30 per person and can be purchased on Go Rio’s website. Early bird registration for the Calaverita 5K Run is $35 per person until September 18, and $40 per person from September 19 through October 18. Family registration is $25 per person or a four-pack for $80.