Día de los Muertos Procession Applications

Join us for the 13th Annual Muertos Fest at Hemisfair on October 24 & 25, 2026. The public procession is a central element of our celebration, viewed by thousands of on-site spectators and broadcast live on KSAT-12.

Because space is limited, we encourage groups to apply early. Please review the guidelines below before submitting your application:

A Meaningful Cultural Tribute (Not a Commercial Parade)

The Muertos Fest Procession is dedicated strictly to honoring loved ones who have passed. Every entry must center on a meaningful tribute to a deceased person or group of people. The procession is intended to act as an authentic cultural expression. 

Please note: This Procession is not an opportunity for advertising or promotion, and entries should not be focused on brands but rather on people. Corporate logos are strictly prohibited.

Mandatory Two-Day Commitment

Accepted participants MUST commit to walking in both scheduled processions:

• Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 7:00 PM
• Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 3:00 PM

Open to Creative & People-Powered Entrants

We welcome a wide range of entries, including families, community groups, schools, performance troupes, dancers, and artists. Music and creativity is encouraged, along with hand-crafted visual elements such as:

• Mobile, hand-carried, or wheeled altars
• People-powered alebrijes or giant skeleton puppets
• Performing groups and family tributes

Note: Because the route navigates the pedestrian walkways of Hemisfair, no motorized vehicles or floats are permitted.

Group Manpower & Display 

Muertos Fest does not provide volunteer support to walk with your group. All participating groups should ensure they have sufficient members to carry their displays, props, and custom banners throughout the full route. Two people will be required to hold each group’s 6'x4' banner printed for each group. All carried structures, altars, and puppets should also be kept lightweight and manageable for the duration of the procession. The Saturday evening procession will require light elements for visibility (no open flames allowed). 

Media & Broadcast Preparation

Information provided in your application—including group details and the names of those being honored—will be used for event signage and shared directly with KSAT-12 for the live television broadcast. Please ensure all names and bios are complete and accurate upon submission.