El Paso's first free Día de los Muertos celebration launches Oct. 16

Destination El Paso will launch its first free Día de los Muertos celebration at the Downtown Visitor Information Center, beginning with a press conference and ribbon cutting on Friday, October 16 at 6:30 p.m., according to KVIA.

The festival will run across three weekends, each with its own theme and programming. The first weekend, October 16 to 17, is titled "Pawprints on Our Hearts" and will remember pets who brought joy and companionship to people's lives. The second weekend, October 23–24, is called "Stars Remembered" and will celebrate entertainment and cultural figures who inspired audiences. The final weekend, October 30–31 and November 1, titled "Always with Us," will focus on family, friends, and loved ones who have passed away.

All events will be free and open to the public. Visitors of all ages can enjoy live music and entertainment, food, beverages, and local vendors throughout the celebration. Additional activities will draw on Día de los Muertos traditions and customs.

Destination El Paso will post details about each weekend's entertainment schedule, vendor lineup, and full programming on social media at @VisitElPaso.

The celebration takes place at the Downtown Visitor Information Center and Pedestrian Pathway at 1 Civic Center Plaza.