These Texas Cities are the Best for Celebrating Día de Los Muertos

Día de Los Muertos is a lively and heartfelt celebration of life, death, and family. While this holiday is rooted in Mexican tradition, many U.S. cities now host their own versions of this colorful event. El Paso—our very own border town—has claimed its rightful place on the list of top U.S. cities to celebrate Día de Los Muertos! With its rich cultural ties to Mexico, it’s no surprise we’re ranked #4, and we’re feeling pretty proud of that. Here’s a look at the top 10 cities, with a little extra love for El Paso’s spot.

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1. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque tops the list as the best city in the U.S. for Día de Los Muertos. With an impressive Muertos Score, this city is full of vibrant celebrations, including massive marigold parades and candlelight vigils. Albuquerque’s deep-rooted history and high Hispanic population make it the perfect place to honor the dead in style.

2. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio ties with Los Angeles for having the most Día de Los Muertos events, and the city loves to throw a party! From the Hemisfair Muertos Fest to grand parades and art workshops, San Antonio brings a festive spirit to every celebration. It’s not just a party—it’s a massive cultural event with a strong historical backdrop.

3. Los Angeles, California

In LA, Día de Los Muertos is all about blending tradition with the big-city vibe. Home to one of the largest Hispanic populations in the U.S., the city boasts a variety of parades, altars, and festivals. From the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetery celebrations to smaller neighborhood events, LA’s Dia is both beautiful and over-the-top.

4. El Paso, Texas

That’s right—our very own El Paso ranks #4! Nestled on the U.S.-Mexico border, El Paso offers one of the most authentic Día de Los Muertos experiences outside of Mexico. With a strong 83% Hispanic population and deep cultural connections to Mexican traditions, our celebrations are steeped in heritage. The heart of the city comes alive during Día de Los Muertos with San Jacinto Plaza transforming into a lively epicenter of altars, music, and colorful parades.

Sure, bigger cities like LA and San Antonio might throw more events, but here in El Paso, it’s all about authenticity. Our celebrations are rich with tradition and community spirit, making it a genuinely unique experience. We don’t just celebrate the holiday—we live it, honoring our loved ones with heartfelt ofrendas and stories that connect us to our ancestors. El Paso, we should be proud!

5. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix may surprise some by landing in the top five, but the city has a growing Día de Los Muertos presence. With large parades and family-friendly activities across town, Phoenix brings a desert twist to the festivities. Its annual Cultural Coalition festival showcases music, food, and performances that highlight the beauty of this holiday.

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6. San Diego, California

With its proximity to the Mexican border, San Diego ranks high as a must-visit Día de Los Muertos city. Known for its massive celebrations in Old Town and Sherman Heights, San Diego combines community events with stunning altars and music performances. The city’s festivities perfectly balance tradition and modern influence.

7. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson’s Día de Los Muertos events take on a unique twist with its massive All Souls Procession. This parade, which blends art, culture, and remembrance, draws tens of thousands of participants. Tucson’s spin on the holiday shows how different cities interpret and celebrate this beloved tradition.

8. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, famous for its over-the-top style, knows how to celebrate Día de Los Muertos in its own flashy way. The city’s events feature stunning altars, performances, and even nightclub parties themed around the holiday. Vegas turns the cultural celebration into a fun, neon-filled experience, while still paying homage to its roots.

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9. Chicago, Illinois

Even up north, Día de Los Muertos is celebrated with a bang. Chicago boasts one of the largest Mexican populations in the Midwest, and their events reflect that strong community presence. Pilsen, the heart of Mexican culture in Chicago, hosts art shows, altar-making workshops, and outdoor parades that bring color and warmth to the Windy City’s fall season.

10. Dallas, Texas

Dallas rounds out the top 10 with its big-city celebrations. The city’s Muertos Fest draws in thousands with music, cultural performances, and creative altars. Dallas also features vibrant parades that wind through downtown, adding a big splash of color to the urban landscape.

As we approach Día de Los Muertos this year, remember that El Paso stands tall as one of the top destinations in the U.S. to celebrate this sacred holiday. Whether you’re joining in on the lively events at San Jacinto Plaza or honoring your loved ones in the comfort of your own home, El Paso is a city that embraces the beauty, history, and traditions of Día de Los Muertos like no other.