About El Dia de los
Muertos Festival
Corpus Christi, Tx
Our Story
For 19 years, the Dia de los Muertos Street Festival has brought the Coastal Bend together for an unforgettable celebration of art, culture, music, and remembrance. What began as a community gathering has grown into a vibrant, 10-city-block festival recognized as one of the premier Día de los Muertos celebrations in Texas and the United States. The festival has also been named Best Festival in The Bend Magazine's Locals List every year from 2016–2026 and has received honors from the Caller-Times Best of the Best, Visit Corpus Christi State of Tourism Awards, and the Downtown Management District Downtowner Awards.
Join us on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to midnight in the heart of downtown Corpus Christi for a full day of live entertainment, visual arts, incredible food, family fun, and authentic cultural experiences.
Music comes alive across four entertainment stages featuring Latin rock, pop, Tejano, mariachi, Ballet Folklórico, traditional cultural dancers, youth performers, and some of South Texas' most exciting emerging bands. Throughout downtown, neighboring businesses join the celebration with outdoor dining, live music, and festival specials, creating an energetic atmosphere that keeps visitors dancing well into the night.
Art is at the heart of the festival. The juried Hecho a Mano Art Expo features more than 85 artists and artisans showcasing fine art, handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and one-of-a-kind Día de los Muertos-inspired creations. Students from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi and Del Mar College demonstrate artistic techniques, volunteer throughout the festival, and share their creativity with visitors.
At K Space Contemporary, festivalgoers can explore exhibitions celebrating the spirit of Día de los Muertos, including a fine art exhibition, a youth art exhibition, and the beloved Extravagancia de Piñatas competition. This year's theme, Leyendas: The Stories of Mexico, invites K–12 student groups to create imaginative piñatas competing for public voting and prizes.
Families can enjoy the lively Kids' Corner with hands-on crafts, games, performances, and creative activities designed especially for young festivalgoers.
One of the festival's most meaningful traditions is the Community Ofrenda Display, where community members, schools, and youth organizations create beautiful altars honoring loved ones while celebrating the enduring connections between generations. At its center is a large community ofrenda dedicated to beloved Coastal Bend residents, along with an interactive remembrance area where visitors are invited to honor family and friends.
The celebration extends beyond festival day. Throughout October, K Space Contemporary offers workshops exploring the traditions and artistry of Día de los Muertos. Additional events at La Palmera Mall, held October 6 through November 2, include a community ofrenda and the colorful Parade of Piñatas, offering even more opportunities to experience this treasured Mexican tradition.
The festival also celebrates the next generation of artists and performers. Young dancers, college mariachi groups, talented youth musicians, and participants from the inspiring Chicas Rock after-school music program perform alongside accomplished regional artists, showcasing the rich creative spirit of the Coastal Bend.
Spanning Chaparral, Mesquite, Starr, Peoples, and Taylor Streets, the festival transforms downtown Corpus Christi into a vibrant celebration of life, remembrance, and community. Guests are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the occasion by wearing festive attire, donning colorful flower crowns, enjoying face painting, shopping for handmade art, and dancing under the stars.
The Dia de los Muertos Street Festival is coordinated by K Space Contemporary and Electra Art*Axis Tattoo with the support of dedicated community partners, volunteers, and sponsors. Festival proceeds benefit K Space Contemporary, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization committed to enriching the Coastal Bend through contemporary art, education, and cultural programming.