The Day of the Dead is one of the most representative traditions of Mexican culture. On November 1, the souls of children are honored, and on November 2, the souls of adults.

The celebration includes a syncretism of pre-Hispanic cultures and the Catholic religion brought by Spanish evangelizers.

One of the traditions of this celebration is the altars, so it is common for both homes and public places to set up altars with photos of the deceased, foods they liked, seasonal sweets such as sugar skulls and pan de muerto, and colorful marigolds.

These altars are also placed on the graves of the deceased, accompanied by hundreds of candles that illuminate the path for the souls returning home.


During this time, various sugar sweets in the shape of skulls, coffins, and other symbols related to these days can be found.

During this time, various sugar sweets in the shape of skulls, coffins, and other symbols related to these days can be found.

Several places are famous for how they celebrate these days:

Villages of Lake Pátzcuaro

Michoacán boasts significant contributions from Purépecha culture and has turned these celebrations into a tradition, especially in the towns surrounding Lake Pátzcuaro and Janitzio Island, which is completely lit up by the number of candles lit on the altars. In Jarácuaro, it's worth visiting the Temple of San Pedro and the Chapel of the Nativity, with various altars alongside, as well as being the setting for the ancient Dance of the Old People. In Arócutin, a large floral arch is placed in front of the Temple of Our Lady of the Nativity, and the adjacent cemetery is covered in marigolds and candles.


In Cuanajo, wooden horses are placed on the altars. In Pátzcuaro, the cemetery is also covered in altars, and numerous boats depart from the pier to Janitzio. In Tzintzuntzan, outdoor theater performances take place on November 1, along with a representation of pre-Hispanic ball games, in addition to the colorful altars displayed throughout the town.

Magical Neighborhood of Mixquic, Mexico City

Located in the southeast of Mexico City, during these celebrations, the cemeteries are covered in altars and candles; there are also skull contests and music.


In Mexico City, there are also other places worth visiting such as: UNAM, Dolores Olmedo Museum, Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum, the Zócalo where a mega altar is set up, Xochitla Ecological Park, and the Frida Kahlo Museum, all featuring magnificent altars and various activities like concerts.

The Day of the Dead Parade has also become a tradition, taking place along Paseo de la Reforma and ending in the Zócalo. It is an event worthy of contemplation.

Huaquechula, Puebla

Located 45 km from the state capital, very close to the Popocatépetl volcano. According to local beliefs, they await the deceased from accidents starting October 28 and for children on October 31. The altars set up in homes are monumental, sometimes reaching more than three stories high and adorned with various shiny and colorful objects.

Chignahuapan, Puebla

This town hosts an entire fair during these dates, and as part of the celebration, the Festival of Light and Life takes place, starting in the Zócalo with a carpet made of colored sawdust. People with torches and candles make their way from the Parish of Santiago Apostle, passing through the Calzada de las Almas, to the lagoon adorned with fluorescent lights, rafts, and a floating pyramid guarded by skulls, which becomes the stage for narrating the journey of the dead.

Huasteca Potosina

In this region, Xantolo is celebrated, where on November 1, a vigil with prayers and praises is held throughout the day and night, accompanied by incense and music from the Teenek, an indigenous community in the area. On November 2, the Teenek and Nahuas bring offerings to the cemeteries, which are decorated with flowers. The celebration extends until the end of November when offerings in the cemeteries are renewed and adorned with fruits and flowers.

Huautla de Jiménez, Oaxaca

Located in the Mazatec Sierra, its frequent mist gives it a mystical character. In this region, there are figures who act as a link between life and death, and through them, the spirits send messages to the living; they are known as the Huehues. Here, All Saints' Day is celebrated from October 27 to November 5, and every house has an altar for the dead with photos and favorite foods of the deceased, as well as marigolds. During these days, groups of Huehuetones, musicians, and dancers with masks, wicker hats shaped like baskets, sandals, and clothing made of cloth, roam the main streets and alleys of the neighborhoods. When invited to dance, they unleash their Huehueton enthusiasm, joking, laughing, dancing, and singing.