In late October, a unique magic envelops Mexico. The streets become awash with vibrant colours, the scent of marigolds fills the air, and the energy of celebration blends with reverence. As part of the VayCay Couple, we immersed ourselves in this vibrant tradition, eager to experience Día de los Muertos—or Day of the Dead—just like the locals. In this guide, we’ll share our experiences, tips, and insights into celebrating this profound Mexican tradition, and how you can fully embrace it on your next visit to the Americas.
Understanding the Heart of Día de los Muertos
Before we dove into the festivities, it was essential for us to truly understand the essence of Día de los Muertos. Far from a morbid occasion, it’s a beautiful and heartfelt celebration of life. The Day of the Dead is about honouring deceased loved ones, with families gathering to build ofrendas (altars), share stories, and invite the spirits of the departed back for a few days of celebration.
Mexico City Day of the Dead
Our journey began in the vibrant heart of Mexico—Mexico City. The Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico City are some of the most striking in the world. We had the privilege of witnessing the grand Day of the Dead parade, inspired by the film Spectre and now an annual fixture. With floats, giant skeleton puppets, and thousands of people dressed in elaborate costumes, the parade was a visual spectacle that captured the essence of the celebration.
Tip: Arrive early along Paseo de la Reforma to secure a prime spot and enjoy the best views of the parade.
Oaxaca Day of the Dead: The Soulful Heart of the Festival
After the grandeur of Mexico City, we travelled to Oaxaca, where the festival’s intimate and traditional atmosphere took centre stage. Oaxaca is renowned for its deep-rooted Day of the Dead celebrations, and we felt privileged to participate in the comparsa—a lively street parade of music and dancing that runs late into the night. Visiting the cemeteries of Xoxocotlán and Atzompa was a memorable experience, with graves illuminated by candles, flowers, and personal mementos, adding to the poignancy of the occasion.
Where to Celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico
While Mexico City and Oaxaca are the highlights of the Day of the Dead, we discovered other beautiful places where this celebration shines.
- Pátzcuaro, Michoacán: The shores of Lake Pátzcuaro and Janitzio Island offer a magical experience, with candlelit boats and all-night vigils by the indigenous Purepecha people.
- San Andrés Mixquic: A small town near Mexico City, Mixquic offers a spiritual and authentic experience, particularly during the “Alumbrada”, where the cemetery glows with thousands of candles.
Experiencing Día de los Muertos Like a Local
Building or Visiting an Ofrenda
A key part of our experience was visiting a local family who invited us to help build their ofrenda. The heartfelt process of placing photographs, favourite foods, and personal items on the altar was deeply moving, as it allowed us to connect with the traditions in an authentic way.
Tasting Traditional Foods
No Día de los Muertos celebration is complete without indulging in traditional foods. We savoured pan de muerto (sweet bread), mole negro, and sweet pumpkin desserts. These foods are symbolic, paying homage to the spirits in a truly delicious way.
Dressing the Part
To fully embrace the celebration, we joined in the tradition of painting our faces as calaveras (skulls) and donning traditional attire. This not only made us feel part of the festival, but it also allowed us to connect with the vibrant local culture.
Day of the Dead in New Orleans: A Cultural Fusion
If Mexico is out of reach, New Orleans offers a unique take on Day of the Dead, blending Mexican traditions with its own rich cultural tapestry. We attended a heartfelt procession there last year, and it was a beautiful homage to the original Mexican celebration.
Planning for Día de los Muertos in Mexico 2025
For those planning to experience the Day of the Dead in Mexico in 2025, early planning is key. Popular destinations such as Oaxaca and Mexico City fill up quickly. Researching different locations for your Día de los Muertos celebration will help you find the setting that aligns with your preferences. Smaller towns can offer a more intimate atmosphere, but it’s important to respect local traditions and customs.
Recommendation: For a quieter, more authentic experience, consider visiting less touristy towns while still adhering to local customs and etiquette.
Beyond the Festival: Mexico’s Cultural and Natural Wonders
While the Day of the Dead is a major highlight, Mexico is also known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. During our time in the country, we explored various tourist attractions in Mexico such as:
- Teotihuacan: The ancient ruins of the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon.
- Tulum: Known for its stunning beaches and ancient Mayan ruins.
- Guanajuato: A colourful city with beautiful streets and historic significance.
What is Mexico Famous For?
- Cultural Heritage: From Mayan and Aztec ruins to colonial architecture.
- Cuisine: Tacos, tamales, and a plethora of regional specialities.
- Natural Wonders: Cenotes, volcanoes, and abundant wildlife.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing Día de los Muertos in Mexico was transformative for us. Far from being just another festival, it is a deep, spiritual celebration of life, love, and memory. Whether you’re joining the grand parades in Mexico City, or witnessing the intimate ceremonies in Oaxaca, immersing yourself in Día de los Muertos is an unforgettable experience.
If you want to fully understand the heart of Mexico, this festival should be at the top of your travel list. The stories, the colours, the flavours—everything about Día de los Muertos is designed to touch your soul.
