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If you’ve never celebrated Día de los Muertos in Houston, this is a good year to join in. The city’s Mexican and Mexican American communities bring the holiday to life through celebrations shaped by local artists, cultural organizations, and neighborhood traditions.
Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or experiencing the holiday for the first time, these Dia de Los Muertos Houston events offer a chance to take part, meet local makers, and discover how the city celebrates.
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Parades, Performances & Ofrendas — Día de los Muertos Houston
6th Annual Houston Día de los Muertos Parade and Festival
Celebrate life and honor departed loved ones alongside fellow community members during the 6th Annual Houston Día de los Muertos Festival and Parade presented by Reliant.
Don’t miss the beautiful procession, live music performances, delicious concessions, and fun arts and crafts.
When: Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Free
Día de los Muertos at Discovery Green
Image credit: Discovery Green
Step into a vibrant community ofrenda crafted by artist Angel Quesada, where you can honor beloved family members and cherished pets by bringing a photo or keepsake copy.
The afternoon unfolds with a lively Catrín y Catrinas Parade and costume contest, surrounded by traditional performances, local food, and artisan vendors. As evening falls, the celebration culminates in La Musical Ofrenda, a tribute concert led by Nick Gaitan and the Tejas Roots Band.
You will experience soaring melodies honoring regional legends like Lydia Mendoza, Flaco Jiménez, and Dolly Parton, alongside touching tributes to artists lost in 2026, including Willie Colón, Fred Smith, Chuck Negron, and Darryl Croft.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
How Much: Free
Calavera con Calavera 2026
Journey seamlessly between the worlds of the living and the departed as Grupo de Teatro Índigo proudly presents the 13th season of this original theatrical production written by co-founder Eddie Gonzalez.
Experience a colorful celebration featuring live mariachi music, vibrant folklórico dance, humorous characters, and heartfelt storytelling that reminds us to honor loved ones through music, laughter, and celebration rather than sadness alone.
Performed entirely in Spanish with English subtitles, this production invites audiences of all backgrounds to connect with a treasured heritage where culture takes center stage.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Where: Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, 800 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Starts at $39
Magnolia Park Día de los Muertos Parade & Festival
Image credit: Magnolia Park Dia de los Muertos
Celebrate the 13th annual Magnolia Park tradition starting with a vibrant morning parade featuring local high school marching bands, folklórico dancers, mariachi music, festive floats, costumed walkers, lowriders, and community car clubs winding their way toward Hidalgo Park.
The celebration continues at the park festival, where you can enjoy live music showcasing local talent alongside delicious food vendors and community altars.
You are welcome to submit photos to honor cherished family members and pets on the dedicated memorial displays, or pay tribute to this year’s community altar honoree.
When: Saturday, October 24, 2026 | Parade at 10:00 AM, Festival 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Parade starts at 75th Street and Avenue F; Festival at Hidalgo Park, 7000 Avenue Q, Houston, TX 77011
How Much: Free
Día de los Muertos at Forest Park Lawndale
Gather with family for an inviting afternoon celebrating culture, family, and the beautiful tradition of honoring those who came before us.
You can enjoy traditional folklórico dances, local food vendors, lively entertainment, interactive games like lotería, and much more in a warm community setting.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where: Forest Park Lawndale, 6900 Lawndale St, Houston, TX 77023
How Much: Free
Día de los Muertos at Forest Lawn Cemetery
Join friends and family for an unforgettable day filled with culture, live mariachi music, graceful folklórico dancing, a festive pop-up market, a live DJ, and exciting community raffles.
You can explore traditional ofrenda displays and even participate in the special grave decoration contest by registering at the office between October 15th and 29th.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Integrity Funeral Home at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 8601 Almeda Genoa Rd, Houston, TX 77075
How Much: Free
Family-Friendly Día de los Muertos Houston Festivals & Museum Days
Día de los Muertos at Children’s Museum Houston
Image credit: Children’s Museum Houston
Transform an ordinary Sunday into a magical journey through a colorful, bountiful Land of the Dead bursting with sugar skulls and marigolds.
You can guide young learners through interactive bilingual storytimes in the Gallery of Wonder at 10 AM, catch Spanish and English storytelling sessions in the Parent Resource Library at 11 AM and 1 PM, and watch Intempo Dance bring vibrant Mexican culture to life on stage in the Brown Auditorium at noon and 2 PM.
Between performances, your family can craft mini ofrendas in the Design Studio, or dive into all-day hands-on adventures.
From shaping thermoplastic calaveras in the Science Station and designing Alebrijes-inspired stuffed creatures in the Chevron Maker Annex to painting sugar skull designs in Prototopia and building paper skeleton puppets in Kaleidoscope, every corner offers a new way to celebrate before you explore the museum’s own stunning family ofrenda.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Children’s Museum of Houston, 1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004
How Much: Included in admission
Día De Los Muertos Lucha Libre
Step into a one-of-a-kind celebration of Cinco Luchas presented by Manchild and POST, where top-tier lucha libre stars from Houston and Mexico collide in a night of drama, athleticism, and massive personality.
You are fully encouraged to dress for the occasion in your favorite face paint, masks, and wrestling tights as you dive into an immersive atmosphere where every match tells its own bold story.
El Tiempo Cantina POST will be right on-site serving up fresh bites and their famous margaritas, inviting both lifelong fans and first-time spectators to experience the ring in an entirely new way.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: POST Houston, 401 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77201
How Much: Starts at $45.79
Houston Zoo: Dia de los Muertos Celebration
Image credit: Houston Zoo
Stroll beneath glowing decorations and festive photo opportunities at the Houston Zoo, where you can take a quiet moment to honor animals no longer with us at a traditional community altar.
You can bring a photo of a cherished animal to place directly on the ofrenda or stop by the craft station, where guests of all ages are invited to draw and create animal artwork to contribute to the display.
When hunger strikes, treat your taste buds to exclusive celebration flavors, including traditional Día de los Muertos tamales from a featured food truck pop-up and hand-decorated, individually wrapped sugar skull cookies alongside classic Zoo Boo favorites like the Devil’s Kiss Burger and Oreo Double Twist Churro.
Make sure to keep an eye out for La Catrina, who will be roaming the grounds to greet visitors on Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
When: Sunday, November 1 – Monday, November 2, 2026
Where: Houston Zoo, 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
How Much: Included in general admission
Day of the Dead with SpaceCityCircus
Gather at Smither Park for a free, family-friendly event where the talented performers of SpaceCityCircus bring the rich history and traditions of the holiday to life through mesmerizing movement and artistry.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 5:00 PM
Where: Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, 2401 Munger St, Houston, TX 77023
How Much: Free
Día de los Muertos Fashion Show
Experience the beauty, artistry, and cultural significance of the holiday through a dazzling runway presentation hosted by Latinas for the Arts to benefit the historic Grand 1894 Opera House.
Come dressed in your favorite costume!
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 5:00 PM
Where: The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550
How Much: $30
Día de los Muertos Celebration Kemah Boardwalk
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit along the waterfront with a jam-packed schedule of entertainment, kicking off with DJ Eric O spinning tunes from 2:00 PM to 9:15 PM.
As you stroll the boardwalk, you can enjoy kids’ crafts, a live mariachi band, an airbrush artist, and stunning folklórico performances, followed by towering sugar skull stilt walkers roaming the grounds.
You can even cheer on participants in the costume contest before capping off your evening with live music from Los Hermanos Lara.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 9:15 PM
Where: Kemah Boardwalk, 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565
How Much: Free
MECA’s Día de Muertos
Experience one of the city’s most beloved multi-day traditions culminating in a lively weekend festival on the colorful historic Sixth Ward campus.
You and your family can explore stunning community altar exhibitions, browse unique artisan market vendors, sample incredible culinary treats at the food festival, and enjoy vibrant cultural performances celebrating community and heritage.
When: Saturday, October 31 – Sunday, November 1, 2026
Where: MECA Houston, 1900 Kane St, Houston, TX 77007
How Much: Pre-sale tickets start at $15
Día de los Muertos Family Movie Night: “Coco”
Pack a cozy blanket for the lawn, grab takeout from a nearby downtown restaurant, and settle in under the stars for a free outdoor screening of the beloved animated film Coco.
Pre-movie festivities kick off at 6:00 PM, leading right into the 7:00 PM feature presentation that follows aspiring musician Miguel as he journeys through the Land of the Dead.
When: Friday, October 30, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Trebly Park, 1515 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Free
Day of the Dead Festival at Casa Kenji
Get ready for an unforgettable indoor-outdoor festival full of vibrant colors, a curated menu by Casa Kenji, and lively traditions in River Oaks.
You can step onto the dance floor for beginner-friendly salsa dance lessons with no partner required during the live salsa dance workshop, and transform your look with interactive professional Catrina face painting.
Along the way, you are invited to add a photograph or small keepsake to the glowing community ofrenda and altar space, shop unique local vendor booths featuring jewelry, candles, and pastries.
You can also groove to incredible live music from the Son Jaleo salsa big band followed by a salsa and bachata DJ set.
Make sure to stick around for the 2:00 PM giveaways, which include an omakase dinner for two by Casa Kenji and private dance lessons from professional instructors.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where: Casa Kenji, 3201 Allen Pkwy Ste E110, Houston, TX 77019
How Much: Free – $17.85
Día de los Muertos at PlazAmericas
Head up to the second-floor food court stage for a wonderful family-friendly afternoon packed with live music, energetic dancing, and an exciting Catrinas y Catrines contest.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: PlazAmericas, Second-floor food court stage, 7500 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036
How Much: Free
Viva La Vida at LaCenterra
Stroll through Central Green to experience traditional dance performances, cultural storytelling, face painting, festive characters, Coco-inspired appearances, and a towering Mexican doll stilt walker.
As the evening progresses, you can head over to Heritage Square as it comes alive with a live DJ, mariachi performances, Catrina photo ops, interactive entertainment, and an energetic Salsa Casino show that will have everyone dancing.
Also, come hungry to sample festive flavors from local food trucks including El Guajillo, The Zydeco Bowl, HOMIES, Beverly Ann’s, CC’s Hot Tamales, and Sweets with L&L. You can also shop from local neighborhood vendors and cap off your night at Ambriza’s VIP 21+ experience.
When: Friday, October 30, 2026 | Central Green 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Heritage Square 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: LaCenterra, 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Katy, TX 77494
How Much: Free
Día de los Muertos on The Woodlands Waterway
Step out onto the Acqua Patio to honor cherished memories by bringing a photograph to display on the community altar, and savor authentic Mexican street food, exclusive Loca Loka tequila tastings, and seasonal specialty cocktails.
Halloween costumes are strongly encouraged.
When: Saturday, October 31, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Acqua Patio, The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, 1601 Lake Robbins Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
How Much: Free
Bay City Día de los Muertos Festival
Make a weekend getaway about an hour and a half southwest of Houston to kick things off on Friday night with an incredible date night concert and dance featuring Tejano legend Ram Herrera at the Bay City Civic Center.
You can then return on Saturday afternoon for a free downtown festival brimming with live music, local art displays, delicious food vendors, and beautiful community altar presentations.
When: Friday, November 6, 2026 – Saturday, November 7, 2026 | Friday concert 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Saturday festival 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Downtown Bay City (Festival) & Bay City Civic Center (Concert), Bay City, TX 77414
How Much: Free
Markets, Parties & After-Dark Celebrations
Dia De Los Muertos Outdoor Market
Immerse yourself in rich neighborhood traditions on the Northside by heading over to Dan Electro’s for a colorful afternoon community gathering.
You can browse unique artisan vendors, sample delicious local food, and dance along to vibrant live music by Gio Chamba.
When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Dan Electro’s, 1031 E 24th St, Houston, TX 77009
How Much: Included in general admission
Una Noche en Downtown
Image credit: Downtown Houston
Spend an enchanting evening of culture, community, and remembrance in downtown Houston featuring live music, mariachi performances, and ballet folklórico.
You can wander through a bustling mercado along Preston Street, participate in interactive workshops hosted by Young Audiences of Houston, take advantage of complimentary face painting, and view the community ofrenda dedicated to departed loved ones and pets.
As you explore, the festivities extend onto the nearby Main Street Promenade, where you will discover street performers, games, seating, and beautifully illuminated holiday installations funded in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.
When: Friday, October 30, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Market Square Park & Main Street Promenade, 301 Milam St, Houston, TX 77002
How Much: Pre-sale tickets start at $15
Know Before You Go: Día de los Muertos in Greater Houston
Many of Houston’s larger Día de los Muertos events take place inside the Inner Loop, particularly Downtown, Hermann Park, and the Museum District. But you don’t have to drive into the city center to celebrate.
Suburbs such as Sugar Land, Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, and Kemah also host seasonal events and community gatherings. Check the venue address before heading out, especially if you’re traveling from outside Houston, as drive times vary with traffic.
Common Questions About Día de los Muertos Houston
What is the difference between Halloween and Día de los Muertos?
Halloween and Día de los Muertos fall around the same time of year, but they have different traditions. Halloween has roots in ancient Celtic festivals, including Samhain, and has evolved into a holiday associated with costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky entertainment.
Día de los Muertos is a Mexican tradition centered on remembering deceased loved ones. Families may create ofrendas with photographs, candles, marigolds, and favorite foods to welcome and honor their memory.
Can visitors add photos to community ofrendas?
Some public ofrendas invite visitors to contribute photographs or small mementos, while others are intended for viewing only. Check the event’s instructions before bringing anything to add to an altar.
If contributions are welcome, follow the organizers’ guidelines on what to bring and where to leave it.
Are Día de los Muertos events in Houston kid-friendly?
Many Houston celebrations welcome children, with activities such as sugar skull decorating, face painting, crafts, and folklórico performances.
Activities vary by venue, so check the event schedule before you go. Some celebrations also include live music, food vendors, and altar displays that give families a chance to learn about the holiday together.
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