By Lost Pathfinder Media
Location: El Paso, Texas
Date: November 1, 2025
A Celebration of Life, Memory, and Color
Each November, the streets of downtown El Paso transform into a sea of marigolds, music, and memory. This year’s Día de los Muertos Desfile & Festival brought the community together once again in the Downtown Arts District and San Jacinto Plaza — this time under the brilliant theme of “Alebrijes”, the mythical, vividly painted creatures of Mexican folklore.
It wasn’t just a festival; it was a living, breathing tribute to heritage — where remembrance met celebration and where every drumbeat echoed the rhythm of both past and present.
Arriving in the Heart of El Paso
We arrived at San Jacinto Plaza just as the afternoon light began to soften over the city skyline. The air carried the scent of roasted corn, fresh tortillas, and sweet pan dulce drifting from the rows of food trucks that lined the streets.
Before the parade began, we grabbed a couple of award-winning El Paso hotdogs and refreshing horchatas from a local vendor — fuel for the long evening ahead. With the sounds of mariachi music filling the air, families in vibrant attire began claiming their spots along the parade route. We found ours in a shaded area just in time for the first float to appear.
And then — like a wave of color — the parade came to life.
Through the Lens: Capturing What’s Often Missed
This year, my gear of choice was my Canon RF 24–105mm f/4, paired with my trusty Canon RF 70–200mm f/4. Each has its own way of seeing — one wide, one intimate — and both perfect for a parade bursting with motion and energy.
My goal wasn’t just to photograph the obvious — the grand floats or large performances — but to find the quiet moments: a dancer adjusting her mask, a child’s face painted in skulls looking up at the sky, or a musician lost in his melody. Those are the moments that define a festival like this — the ones that speak long after the music fades.
As the parade wound through downtown, over 60 entries filled the streets — from ballet folklórico troupes to local musicians, artists, and community organizations. Each one added its own thread to the tapestry of tradition that defines El Paso’s rich cultural story.
After the Parade: The Heartbeat of the Plaza
When the final float passed and the applause faded, the celebration didn’t stop. San Jacinto Plaza pulsed with energy as Mariachi Luna Llena took the main stage. Their music carried through the plaza, echoing off the surrounding buildings.
Our youngest son, who loves music, was instantly captivated. He danced in the crowd — tiny feet moving in rhythm, completely absorbed in the moment. Watching him, I couldn’t help but smile. With my wife being Puerto Rican, it was beautiful to see him connecting so naturally with the Hispanic rhythms that fill both sides of his heritage.
Everywhere I turned, cameras were raised — photographers, families, and media teams all capturing the same magic in their own ways. It was as if the entire city had become storytellers for the night.
Reflections from the Road
Walking back toward the parking garage, the glow of Papel picado lights faded behind us. My camera’s memory card was full, but my head was fuller still — with images, laughter, and the quiet pride of a community honoring those who came before them.
Día de los Muertos in El Paso isn’t just a festival. It’s a connection between generations — a colorful bridge between life and death, past and future.
If you ever find yourself in El Paso at the start of November, don’t miss this event. Come ready to celebrate, remember, and be moved.
📸 Festival Highlights Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions – Día de los Muertos El Paso
1. When and where is the festival held?
The Día de los Muertos Desfile & Festival takes place annually in Downtown El Paso, primarily in the Arts District and San Jacinto Plaza. The 2025 festival ran from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the parade beginning at 4 p.m.
2. Is the event free?
Yes — both the parade and festival are free to attend, though local vendors and food trucks offer items for purchase.
3. Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely! Families are a central part of the celebration. Expect music, dancing, and colorful costumes that captivate audiences of all ages.
4. Is it pet-friendly?
While the event is outdoors, it’s typically very crowded and loud — so pets are not recommended unless they’re service animals. But there are some allowed in the parade.
5. What’s the best time to arrive?
Arrive by mid-afternoon (around 3 p.m.) to find good parking and a comfortable spot for the parade.
About Lost Pathfinder Media
We tell stories of culture, travel, and connection across the American Southwest and beyond — through honest photography and immersive field reporting. Want us to cover an event? Contact us HERE.
