O Dia de los muertos or Day of the Dead in Mexico is a traditional Mexican celebration that honors and remembers deceased loved ones.
Far from being a sad date, it is a vibrant and festive holiday, where families believe that the souls of their dead return to visit them. The celebration involves the setting up of colorful altars with offerings such as favorite foods, drinks, flowers (especially cempasúchil), candles and photos.
It is a time for family reunions, reflection and celebration of life, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
For those of you who already know about the tradition, I will start this article with a more than interesting video and with the updated times and dates of the celebration in Mexico City. If you want to know more about this incredible tradition and the other important cities that celebrate the dead, just read the whole article.
Day of the Dead Hotels in Mexico City
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The Dark Side of Day of the Dead | What the Guides Don't Tell You
Behind the festivities and colorful skulls, Mexico's Day of the Dead hides ancient secrets. In this video, the creator of the Mexico Guide, Rafael Couto, delves into the mysteries of the Day of the Dead that the tour guides do not reveal.
Mexico City Day of the Dead 2025 Schedule and Itineraries
The Alebrijes Parade (Updated soon)
Os alebrijes are fantastic creatures very important in Mexican folk art.
The Museum of Popular Art in Mexico City organizes a grand parade on October 19, 2025, which will depart at noon from the Zócalo to the Angel of Independence, with creations by artists, museums and various public and private institutions.
Then, until November 5, these alebrijes will be on display on Paseo de la Reforma Avenue, between the Angel of Independence and the Fountain of Diana the Hunter.
Grand Parade of Catrinas (Updated soon)
The Great Catrinas Parade starts at 17:30 pm at the Angel of Independence and features numerous floats, dancers, actors and musicians.
Great offering in the historic center (November 28-2, 2024)
In addition to the Day of the Dead parade, you can't miss the Festival of Offerings and Floral Arrangements, with 27 offerings created by different indigenous communities in the country, as well as Guerrero, State of Mexico, Hidalgo, Puebla, Chiapas, Yucatán and Tlaxcala.
The exhibition will be complemented by colorful sawdust rugs designed by Huamantla artisans. It will be possible see it from October 28th to November 2nd at the Zócalo. It's time to take lots of photos!
Dia de los Muertos Grand Parade 2025
Have you seen the James Bond movie, 007 Against Spectre (2015)? At the beginning of the film, he is seen parading in the Feast of the Dead in the historic center of Mexico City.
But in reality, This famous parade did not exist before the film. The following year, the government created it, inspired by the film, and it was an immediate success.
Currently, is an essential event in Mexico City with dancers, floats, music, acrobats and costumes that attract many national and international tourists.
Although it is not a traditional activity, it is a great celebration of Mexican popular culture and I really recommend attending if you are there this time of year.
The date and time change every year. In 2025, it will be on November 2nd. Cwill start at 17pm (Updated soon) at the Puerta de los Leones towards the Zócalo.
Night Tour of Chapultepec Park (October 31st to November 3rd)
From 19pm to 23pm (updated soon), at Chapultepec Park, Teopankali (“house of altars” in Nahuatl) offers a mystical and festive nighttime immersion into the world of the Day of the Dead.
The promenade stretches for 1,3 km from Puerta de los Leones to Terraza del Lago, with giant skulls, video mapping and festive music. There are 12 altars covered with cempasúchil flowers and various traditional elements from the states of Oaxaca, Guerrero, Michoacán and Chiapas.
Visitors are invited to bring a photo of a deceased loved one to place on one of 12 altars.
What do people usually do on the Day of the Dead?
On the Day of the Dead, people set up altars with offerings, visit cemeteries, prepare favorite foods of the deceased, and participate in parades and cultural festivities.
What is the origin of the Day of the Dead in Mexico?
The origins of the Day of the Dead in Mexico date back to pre-Hispanic indigenous traditions of civilizations such as the Aztecs, Mayans and Toltecs, who honored the dead, combined with Catholic influences brought by the Spanish.
How is Day of the Dead celebrated in Mexico?
Day of the Dead in Mexico is celebrated with elaborate altars (ofrendas), festive visits to cemeteries, Catrina parades, parties with music, traditional food, and the creation of sugar skulls and bread of the dead.
What is the meaning of the Day of the Dead?
The Day of the Dead means celebrating life and lovingly remembering deceased loved ones, believing that their souls return to visit their families, making it a day of togetherness and joy, not mourning.
What to do on the Day of the Dead?
On the Day of the Dead, you can set up an altar with photos and offerings, visit cemeteries with your family, participate in cultural events, eat traditional dishes, and learn about the history and meaning of the celebration.
Why does Mexico celebrate the Day of the Dead?
Mexico celebrates the Day of the Dead to keep alive the memory of their ancestors and loved ones, reaffirming the belief in the cycle of life and death and the continuity of family ties, combining ancient traditions with Catholicism.
What is the difference between Day of the Dead in Mexico and Brazil?
The main difference is that in Mexico the Day of the Dead is a festive and colorful celebration of life and memory, while in Brazil (All Souls' Day) it is generally a day of mourning, reflection and sober visiting of cemeteries.
How does Mexico deal with death?
Mexico deals with death in a more festive and integrated way with life, seeing it as a transition and not an absolute end, celebrating those who have departed with joy, rituals and the belief in their annual return.
Which countries celebrate the Day of the Dead?
In addition to Mexico, other Latin American countries and communities with strong Mesoamerican cultural heritage, such as Guatemala, Bolivia, Ecuador, and parts of the United States, also celebrate Day of the Dead or similar variations.
Spanish invasion and the origin of the Day of the Dead
The celebration of Day of the Dead in Mexico has pre-Hispanic indigenous roots. Ancient peoples, such as the Aztecs, had a complex view of the soul and death. For them, Mictecacihuatl, the Lady of Death, reigned in Mictlán, the destination of souls who, after an arduous journey, reached eternal rest. This ancestral conception shaped the current festival, uniting the cycle of life and death.
Symbolic elements of the Day of the Dead
The Day of the Dead in Mexico is celebrated with symbols rich in meaning. Altars, cempasúchil flowers, papel picado, candles, papier-mâché and the traditional sugar skull are iconic elements of this festival. Sugar skulls, known as calaveras dulces, are sweets made of sugar, lime and hot water, molded into the shape of skulls and decorated with vibrant colors.
These sweet skulls are used as offerings and symbols of the Day of the Dead, representing the celebration of life and the memory of loved ones. In addition, sweet skulls come in many variations in their composition and decoration, and are an important cultural and festive symbol that highlights the richness of Mexican traditions. See below:
Day of the Dead Altar
Day of the Dead altar in Morelia City, Mexico. Photo: Rafael Couto – Mexico Guide
This is one of the coolest and most touching traditions of Dia de los Muertos in Mexico. The meaning of altars is to honor and celebrate the memory of deceased loved ones, being a symbol of respect, longing and connection between generations. Before October 31st, families begin to build altars in their homes to welcome the relative or relatives who have already passed away.
Typically, altars can have 2 to 7 levels, representing specific planes. In addition to flowers and personal objects, altars are richly decorated with traditional foods such as fruits, tamales, chocolate, pan de muerto, and sugar skulls, highlighting the cultural and gastronomic importance of these items in the celebration. Below I explain what each level means:
1st level (ground floor): It is usually decorated with beautiful cempasúchil flowers, seeds or fruits.
2nd level: At this level, the family usually places a photo of the person to whom the altar is dedicated. It can be more than 1 person.
3nd level: In addition to the fruits, the honored person's favorite dishes are placed.
4nd level: On this level is placed the pan de muerto, a very famous homemade bread that is sold throughout the country.
5nd level: salt is used for purification
6nd level: level dedicated to all souls that are in purgatory
7nd level: It usually carries the image of the saint to which the family is devoted.
Day of the Dead Rituals
In addition to the Dia de los Muertos altar, flowers and food, Mexicans also perform other traditional rituals that can be seen in every small town or in the country's capitals.
Order Calaverita
On the Day of the Dead, Mexican children dressed in costumes take to the streets asking for a “calaverita.” Unlike the American “Trick or Treat,” they sing or simply ask: “Can you give me my calaverita?” This practice dates back to the Mexica culture, where an orphan would ask for offerings for his loved ones by painting himself as a skull, inspiring this beautiful and respectful tradition.
Catrina on Dia de los Muertos
La Catrina, originally known as La Catrina, is a Mexican high society lady and a ubiquitous symbol of Mexican culture, especially on the Day of the Dead. Created in the early 20th century by cartoonist José Guadalupe Posada as “La Calavera Garbancera,” she initially satirized the “new rich” who denied their indigenous roots and adopted a new European lifestyle, highlighting the contrast between social classes.
Wearing a Victorian hat and sporting an irreverent smile, La Catrina is depicted as an elegant skeleton. Her social and political representation serves as a critique of class differences and indigenous origin, symbolizing that in the face of death, all distinctions of lifestyle disappear. Thus, Posada’s Catrina has become an icon representing the democracy of death: “in the end, blonde or brunette, rich or poor, everyone ends up being a skull,” as he wrote.
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Offerings in cemeteries on the Day of the Dead in Mexico
On the Day of the Dead, Mexican families prepare elaborate offerings with photos, candles, and cempasúchil flowers to honor their deceased relatives. They take their favorite foods and drinks to the cemeteries, sharing a symbolic meal.
These cemetery activities are part of the Day of the Dead celebrations, bringing communities together in public celebrations and traditional rituals. It is believed that souls return to enjoy these offerings, feeling the love and remembrance of their families, celebrating life and connection.
Day of the Dead Food
One of the most interesting things we can witness (and taste) on Dia de los Muertos is the wide variety of traditional foods that are offered. Among these foods, fruits, typical preparations such as tamales, chocolate, pan de muerto and even sugar skulls stand out, showing the gastronomic diversity present in the celebration. I have selected the most traditional ones for you:
1 – Bread of the Dead
The Bread of the Dead is an essential element of the Mexican Day of the Dead. Of pre-Hispanic origin, its round shape with “bones” and a “skull” symbolizes the four directions of the universe. Traditionally made with anise, vanilla and orange, and covered in sugar, many prefer the versions filled with cream or dulce de leche. It is widely produced and celebrated in Mexico.
2 – Sugar Skulls
Sugar skulls are the sweetest elements of the celebration and serve both as decoration and as a treat for the palate.
The designs vary according to each creator; the skulls are colorful and also contain white chocolate, aluminum foil or colored strips (on which is written the name of the person to whom it is given or the name of the deceased to whom the offering is made), beads and shiny sequins.
3 – Mole
Mole is a true delight for the living and certainly for the soul. It is in itself an artisanal food, given the quantity of ingredients and the complexity of its preparation. It is basically a sauce made from pepper, spices and seeds – among other ingredients, such as chocolate.
Therefore, as it is a Mexican symbol, it cannot be missed on national holidays and special occasions. It is an unavoidable dish on Dia de los Muertos.
4 – Tamales
Tamales, a type of cornmeal, are icons of Mexican cuisine and are essential at gatherings. Their preparation is a social act of togetherness. There are countless varieties, but the most typical ones come wrapped in corn husks and stuffed with chicken or pork. Steamed, they are delicious with beans and sauces, and are a star dish for the Day of the Dead.
5 – Pozole
Pozole is the quintessential Mexican soup and is another guest of honor that cannot be missed at Mexican festivals, including, of course, the Day of the Dead. It can be green, white or red, always matching the colors of the Mexican flag.
It is essentially made with pozole corn (or cacahuazintle), spices and even chicken or pork mixed in. It is accompanied by lettuce, radish, onion, powdered oregano and lemon. A tostada (fried tortilla) and hot pepper are always good to accompany.
Where to celebrate Dia de los Muertos in Mexico?
Dia de los Muertos is celebrated throughout Mexico. However, each city expresses the celebration according to the worldview of its inhabitants, reflecting local traditions, beliefs and customs. Some cities are more traditional and offer a lot of culture and history for locals and tourists.
It is interesting to note that the Day of the Dead has striking differences in relation to All Souls' Day, celebrated in Brazil on November 2, which has a quieter and more contemplative tone, with visits to cemeteries and prayers. Halloween, on the other hand, popular in Anglo-Saxon countries, highlights symbols such as pumpkins, costumes and pranks, being a more playful celebration focused on terror. These dates, although close on the calendar, represent different worldviews and ways of honoring the dead.
Therefore, I have selected the most interesting destinations to visit between the end of October and the beginning of November:
1 – Dia de los muertos in Oaxaca
Oaxaca offers an enchanting celebration of the Day of the Dead. Markets open early, selling seasonal fruits, tamales, mole, chocolate and bread of the dead, as well as sugar skulls for altars. Characters such as Death and the Devil parade through the streets in flashy costumes, singing entertaining rhymes, immersing everyone in the rich Mexican culture and traditions.
2 – Patzcuaro
Pátzcuaro, a magical town in Mexico, celebrates the Day of the Dead in its historic streets. The tradition includes altars for children (“little angels”) on November 1st and for adults on the 2nd. The streets come alive with music, crafts, Catrina parades and other cultural events, recalling the ancient Mexican tradition, despite the prohibition of duck hunting.
3 – Dia de los Muertos in Janitzio
Janitzio Island in Michoacán celebrates Day of the Dead with Purépecha roots and a legend of lovers. On the night of November 1, locals flock to the cemetery with food and music, believing that a loving couple will emerge from the lake to join in the celebration. It’s a unique cultural experience, but be prepared for crowds and long lines.
4 – Dia de los Muertos in Aguascalientes
In Aguascalientes, the Day of the Dead is celebrated with the Calaveras Festival in the first week of November. The city is filled with cultural, artistic and gastronomic activities, focused on the Catrinas, in honor of their creator, José Guadalupe Posada. Highlights include nighttime walks around Cerro del Muerto, film series, exhibitions and impressive altars.
5 – Dia de los Muertos in Guadalajara
Guadalajara celebrates the Day of the Dead in an intense way, mixing urban and Catholic traditions. To experience the essence, visit the cemeteries and share with your family. There is also a large parade of Catrinas and characters, with dancers, musicians and athletes. Don't miss the night tours that revive the city's myths and legends.
6 – Day of the Dead in Mexico City
A Mexico City offers a variety of celebrations for the Day of the Dead. In the Zócalo, there is a large themed altar, concerts and festivals. UNAM holds cultural tributes to historical figures. For an authentic experience, visit the Mixquic cemetery, where families prepare traditional altars on the graves, an indescribable and respectful celebration, as seen in the movies.
Fun facts about the Day of the Dead
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- Ancient Origin and Pre-Columbian Tradition:
- Dia de los Muertos has ancient roots that date back to pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans.
- Unique Cultural Fusion:
- After Spanish colonization, the celebration incorporated elements of Catholicism, merging indigenous and Christian traditions.
- Altar of the Dead (Ofrenda):
- Families set up altars with photos and personal objects of the deceased, with food, drinks, candles and flowers, honoring their memories.
- Cempasuchil Flower:
- The cempasúchil is a flower that symbolizes festivity, and it is believed that its aroma and color attract the souls of loved ones back.
- Bread of the Dead:
- “Pan de Muerto” is a sweet bread decorated in the shape of a skull or bone, eaten and shared as an offering.
- Catrinas Parade:
- The parades of “Catrinas”, elegantly dressed skeletons, are a modern artistic manifestation representing equality in the face of death.
In 2003, the Day of the Dead was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Participating in the Day of the Dead: An Invitation to Celebrate
O Day of the Dead is a special celebration that brings people together in honor of life and death. In Mexico, this tradition is an essential part of the social and cultural fabric, celebrating our roots and the memory of our loved ones. By participating in this celebration, you experience an authentic and meaningful party of the dead. Explore the Day of the Dead altars, indulge in the authentic Mexican food and get involved in the joy of Mexican culture.
If you want more tips about Dia de los Muertos and its traditions, leave your comment here or write directly to Mexico Guide Instagram.
FAQ
Dia de los Muertos, a festival originating from the Aztec culture in Mexico, has celebrated life, death and rebirth for over 3.000 years. It is a tribute to the deceased and the cycle of life.
Día de los Muertos is an ancient indigenous celebration that dates back to the times of the Aztecs and Mayans, initially taking place during August. Later, with the arrival of Spanish colonizers, there was a change due to the reaction to the pagan rituals of the Indians.
On Día de los Muertos, people wear skull masks and offer sugar skulls, while on Halloween symbols include pumpkins and references to horror literature, such as vampires and ghosts.
Spaniards celebrate on November 1st, joining All Saints' Day by visiting tombs with flowers and decorations in their hometowns.
Skulls are popular and representative symbols of the Day of the Dead celebration in Mexico, made of sugar and decorated with colors and floral designs.
The event is significant to Mexicans as they believe it is the day their deceased loved ones return to visit them, reflecting on death.
La Catrina, the iconic skull girl, goes beyond Mexican culture, representing not only a cultural symbol, but also a political, behavioral, stylistic, and artistic and social movement.
The history of the celebration of the Day of the Dead in Mexico is ancient, beginning with the Aztecs and Mayans, originally in August. The arrival of the Spanish colonizers brought shock due to the pagan rituals of the indigenous people.
The festival featured the Lady of Death, inspiring the creation of La Catrina, the current symbolic skull. José Guadalupe Posada, a cartoonist, was fundamental in establishing this character and the date in Mexico.
In Mexico, they are made with care in various regions, incorporating symbols such as the Cempasúchil flower, candles, fruits, sugar skulls and elements that recall the tastes of the deceased, such as photos and objects.
The Mexican skull is a vital symbol in Mexican Day of the Dead rituals, symbolizing life and protection from evil spirits.
The Mexican skull honors the deceased and represents protection against evil spirits in Mexican culture, with vibrant colors and floral decoration that distinguishes it from the traditional skull.
For Mexicans, death is celebrated as part of life, especially in festivities. In contrast, in our country, we tend to view the end of life as a “nullification” or denial.
The altars are decorated with braids and tissue paper folds, symbolizing the connection between life and death through the colors orange and purple.
In addition to tacos, tortillas and tamales, Mexican cuisine offers traditional delicacies such as mole poblano, pozole and cochinita pibil.
Beginning in the 2th century, popes recommended an annual day to honor the dead. In the XNUMXth century, the Catholic Church established November XNUMX as the official All Souls' Day.
Juan Guadalupe Posada's character is a skull that portrays Mexican society, highlighting the emotions of a people in crisis with great social differences.
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