City of San Juan set to host Día de los Muertos festival

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It’s a moment of remembrance for a lot of people this upcoming weekend, especially for those who are not with us anymore.

With us spiritually, yes, but there’s no physical being to wrap one’s arms around.

That’s why the City of San Juan, in a linked effort — with the Downtown San Juan Cultural Arts District, San Juan Housing Authority, and the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle — are set for this weekend to present their 2nd annual Día de Los Muertos Festival on Saturday.

The public and community are invited to attend the free festival at San Juan Municipal Park, which starts at 4 p.m.

The city said that it promises the festival to be “bigger and more impactful” compared to last year’s. All in all, it’s to give the community a chance for celebration and remember those who aren’t here with us.

“This cultural tradition will honor the lives of departed loved ones through a wide variety of activities and events,” the city said in a release.

There will be lots of festivities offered at the event.

Attendees can look forward to the first-ever Muertos 5K — which will run through Basilica’s Stations of the Crosses.

That’s not all though. There will also be an El Catrin/La Catrina Costume Contest, so those looking to immerse themselves on the holiday will be able to compete. In addition, the city said there will be a public ofrenda (altar), as well as live music and food — all in dedication for those who have died.

At the festival, there will be a centerpiece that is a large-scale community art installation of alfombras de aserrín — ornate sawdust carpets — that was created by over 100 participants from local organizations and members.

“This centuries-old tradition, unique in its scale in the United States, highlights the region’s deep cultural ties and creative spirit,” the city said in a release.

The 5K — which is a first for the festival — will have runners and walkers (whichever you choose to do) explore the scenic route around the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle.

“Participants will enjoy an evening of reflection, movement, and connection before joining the festivities in downtown San Juan,” the city said in a release. “Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply wish to walk in memory of loved ones, this event is a chance to celebrate life’s journey with purpose and gratitude.”

The 5K starts at 6 p.m. More importantly, to captivate the sense of community during the holiday, members of the Basilica are allowed to bring photos of their deceased ones on the day of the festival — photos must be brought between 9 a.m. to noon at the basilica.

The event will conclude with a mariachi invitational “En Memoria” presented by South Texas Music and Cultural Arts Foundation and featuring Grammy Award-winning artist Aida Cuevas.

For more information, call the city at (956) 223-2200.