This year, Halloween isn’t just a single night—it’s a full weekend! With Halloween officially falling on a Thursday, San Antonio residents are extending the festivities through the weekend, giving everyone a chance to revel in costumes, treats, and chills a little longer. And here in San Antonio, we’re lucky to celebrate something even more special: Día de los Muertos. Here’s the bare bones of both events, including where you can still catch Halloween-inspired fun and take part in Día de los Muertos tributes to honor our loved ones.
Halloween in San Antonio: A Superhero’s Welcome
One Halloween tradition unique to San Antonio is the annual “Superhero Drop” at North Central Baptist Hospital. For the tenth year, officers from the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD), and the SWAT team brought Halloween joy to young patients by rappelling down the side of the hospital dressed as iconic superheroes. This year, Spiderman, Wolverine, and other famous faces delighted the kids, who watched from the windows as their favorite superheroes scaled the walls just for them. Once inside, these real-life heroes spent time with the children, sharing small toys and activities to bring Halloween fun to those unable to trick-or-treat.
The event, held in honor of Julian Andrade, the young son of an SAPD officer who passed away from cancer, has become a beloved staple of Halloween in San Antonio. It not only brings smiles but also serves as a meaningful reminder of community support and shared joy.
Día de los Muertos: A Time for Remembrance
After Halloween winds down, San Antonio turns its focus to Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead—a Mexican tradition that honors loved ones who have passed. Rooted in Aztec rituals and celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, Día de los Muertos blends Indigenous and Catholic customs. Families create ofrendas, or altars, decorated with marigolds, candles, favorite foods, and photos of the departed to welcome their spirits back for a night of remembrance.
San Antonio’s Día de los Muertos events are some of the most beautiful and culturally rich in the country. One major celebration will take place at the historic Mission Marquee Plaza, part of the city’s 7th Annual Día de los Muertos: Celebrando las Misiones. This vibrant event includes a drum and dance procession, live music, face painting, workshops, and a community altar for families to add their own tributes. A special slideshow on the Mission Marquee’s original screen will feature photos of community members’ loved ones who have passed, creating a touching space for connection and reflection.
Events to Catch in San Antonio
If you’re looking for Halloween events, there’s still plenty to experience in the city, and Día de los Muertos celebrations are just getting started! Here’s a rundown of what to check out:
SeaWorld San Antonio
- Howl-O-Scream: September 13 – October 27, 2024 (not recommended for children under 13)
After 7 p.m., the park transforms with haunted houses, scare zones, and spooky shows for a terrifying night out. - Spooktacular: September 12 – October 31, 2024 (suitable for all ages)
A kid-friendly daytime event with trick-or-treating, silly characters, and festive Halloween decor.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
- Fright Fest: September 7 – November 3, 2024 (not recommended for young children; chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
Chilling haunted houses, scare zones, and thrill rides that get scarier after dark! - Boo Fest: September 9 – November 3, 2024 (suitable for all ages)
Trick-or-treating, photo ops, and festive treats for a Halloween celebration designed for families.
San Antonio Botanical Garden
- Happy Frights: Select dates October 3 – November 2, 2024 (suitable for all ages)
An immersive trick-or-treat experience with actors, treats, photo ops, and fantastical displays like dragons and neon mazes. - Haunting Nights: Select dates October 3 – November 2, 2024 (not suitable for children under 13)
Enjoy a spooky night with swamp creatures, Día de los Muertos displays, and scarecrows galore.
San Antonio Zoo
- Zoo Boo! September 21 – October 31, 2024 (suitable for all ages)
A non-scary event featuring costume parties, live music, and trick-or-treating for young Halloween enthusiasts.
Morgan’s Wonderland
- More Delightful Than Frightful: September 27 – October 31, 2024 (suitable for all ages)
An enchanting, accessible Halloween event with candy stations, activities, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
With a blend of chills, thrills, and cultural celebrations, San Antonio is the place to be this Halloween and Día de los Muertos season. Whether you’re in costume or crafting an ofrenda, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
