tour dia de los muertos mexico 2023

2023 Day of the Dead Spanish program

Looking for a unique cultural experience?

Immerse yourself in Oaxaca's vibrant cultural traditions on Day of the Dead.

The Day of the Dead program runs for two weeks, from October 23 to November 3, 2023, so if you want to attend this program, consider visiting Oaxaca, Mexico.

This vibrant and heartwarming event is a perfect opportunity to explore the city, which bursts with life and color after the rainy season.

While in Oaxaca, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Day of the Dead and join a one-of-a-kind Spanish language program. This program will allow you to delve deeper into this remarkable time's culture, art, food, and language.

During the Day of the Dead, witness the beauty of various cultural expressions and mouth-watering gastronomy. Families adorn their homes and host festivities to remember their loved ones who have passed. It's a magical time to embrace the richness of Mexico's heritage.

Key program facts

Cultural workshops.

8 hours per week

Monday to Thursday

2-hours in the afternoon

Cemeteries Tour

4-5 hour tour

Night of October 31

• Visit to various cemeteries

60-90 minutes lecture

Topic: Day of the Dead

• one evening, date TBD

Comparsas Tour

• Visit to various comparsas

Spanish language classes

20 hours per week

Monday to Friday

f rom 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Day of the Dead Packages

Our Day of the Dead packages are the perfect way to experience this cultural celebration while immersing yourself in Spanish. Choose from one of our options, which includes Spanish classes, tours, workshops, and more. All of our packages are designed to give you an authentic and unforgettable experience of the most time-honored holiday of Oaxaca.

Day of The Dead Program

October 21 to November 1

Valid for 2 weeks

40 hours of Spanish language classes (Monday to Friday)

Mask Making & a second cultural workshop (16 hours)

Lecture about Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

1 Tour to the cemeteries (night of October 31)

1 Tour to the comparsas (on November 1)

Day of the Dead Program

October 21 to 25

Valid for one week

20 hours of Spanish language classes

Mask Making cultural workshop (8 hours, Monday to Thursday)

Lecture about Day of the Dead

October 28 to November 1

20 hours of Spanish language classes (Monday to Friday)

8 hours of a cultural workshop (Monday to Thursday)

Please send me more information about the 2024 Day of the Dead Spanish program!

Thank you we will get back to your shortly.

Experience The Spirit of Día De Los Muertos In Mexico

To truly appreciate Mexico's Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos), there are a few key insights that will enhance your experience.

Brunno Braga • Oct 31, 2023

To truly appreciate Mexico’s Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos), there are a few key insights that will enhance your experience. First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that Dia de los Muertos is nothing like Halloween.

While Halloween has Celtic roots in warding off spirits, Dia de los Muertos stands as a commemorative event for departed loved ones. However, due to their proximity on the calendar and the shared opportunity for elaborate costumes, these two celebrations have occasionally blended in recent years.

W hen is Mexico’s Day of the Dead?

Officially, the Day of the Dead falls on November 2. Yet, in certain regions of Mexico, Dia de los Muertos festivities have evolved to encompass October 31 (Halloween) and November 1 (Dia de los Angelitos). In 2023, the Day of the Dead will extend from Tuesday, October 31 to Thursday, November 2, when considering Halloween, or Wednesday, November 1 to Thursday, November 2 without it. The Day of the Dead has earned recognition by UNESCO on its List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

A Colorful Tapestry of Customs

Day of the Dead traditions span a wide spectrum. It ranges from solemn rituals that pay homage to departed relatives to lively celebrations featuring elaborate costumes and face painting. These traditions may vary significantly across different regions of Mexico, offering a rich tapestry of experiences.

Day of the Dead traditions include building altars, known as “ofrendas,” in homes, cemeteries, and public spaces. These altars guide departed spirits back to the living world. Families decorate ofrendas with candles, photos of loved ones, and their favorite items. Sugar skulls, elegant catrinas (skeletal figures), and joyful calacas and calaveras are iconic symbols. Traditional foods like “Pan de Muerto” and marigolds (cempasúchiles) play a significant role. Delicate “papel picado” flags are also a traditional decoration.

Where to Celebrate the Day of the Dead in Mexico

As November approaches, Mexican families congregate at local cemeteries to tend to tombstones, remove weeds, and adorn them with flowers and candles. Leading up to the celebration, they offer a vibrant array of sugar skulls, miniature coffins, skeleton puppets, and skeleton masks, known as calacas. The city annually hosts The Calaca Festival, featuring artistic and cultural events suitable for both children and adults.

Oaxaca transforms during Dia de los Muertos with colorful altars, sand tapestry competitions, and elaborate Day of the Dead traditions. The city bursts to life with Pan de Muerto, calaveras, papel picado, cempasuchils, and more. Visitors can witness the magic of this vibrant celebration, but it’s essential to book Oaxaca trips well in advance.

Mexico City

Mexico City hosts various events to celebrate Dia de los Muertos. One of the most traditional experiences can be found in Mixquic. Here, an old cathedral and its surrounding cemetery serve as the heart of this celebration. Spectacular altars and intricate carpets adorn the church’s interior, while outside, a fair offers rides, games, face painting, and captivating performances. Mexico City’s grand Dia de Muertos parade, introduced in 2016, is a must-see spectacle with giant skeleton figures and colorful floats winding through the city.

Aguascalientes

The birthplace of Jose Guadalupe Posada, the artist behind La Catrina, Aguascalientes hosts a 10-day Festival de las Calaveras. This festival aims to preserve Dia de los Muertos traditions, offering art, performances, music, contests, and a chance to immerse in the rich cultural heritage.

Riviera Maya/Cancun

Xcaret Park hosts the Festival de la Vida y la Muerte in honor of Dia de los Muertos. Visitors can engage in music, dance, shopping for Day of the Dead souvenirs, and learn about Mayan burial rituals during this immersive festival.

Puerto Vallarta

The city offers a range of Dia de Muertos activities, including altars in Plaza de Armas, dance performances at Parque Hidalgo, and a colorful catrina parade featuring local schools, businesses, and organizations.

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" I've been in Mexico City several times and I always said I would come back for Dia De Muertos! And it was even better than I expected. A day complete with three very different and interesting aspects of Day of the Dead and how it is celebrated by the local residents of three small towns outside of Mexico City...Gabriel, who is a wealth of knowledge and the most gracious and lovely guide made this experience so unique and special."

Kathy S. - Vancouver, BC. Canada

QUE VIVAN LOS MUERTOS!

How much:  tbd (2023 was $189usd) when : november 2nd, 2024 time : 10 am meeting point : tbd (somewhere in cdmx) group size : 16 people (this is a public tour) included: transportation, guide, food and beverages.  , save your spot as previous years, this tour is likely to sell out a couple of months in advance if you're not yet ready to book but want to pre-reserve a spot in advance, click the button to join our pre-sale/waiting list. ​.

LIVE AN AUTHENTIC DIA DE MUERTOS EXPERIENCE IN MEXICO

Dia de muertos november 2nd, 2024.

Every November in Mexico City and around the country, people decorate their local cemeteries and prepare their relatives graves for the arrival of their beloved ones coming to celebrate from the eternal world. They arrange their tombstones with flowers, food, and incense in order to welcome them and enjoy their visit.

VIVA LA MUERTE!

We are happy to offer the only comprehensive and special day tour available in Mexico City for the Milpa Alta – Mixquic area. We will visit a few rural towns on the outskirts of Mexico City to see how the locals enjoy and experience this traditional day around the town. We will experience an authentic generational celebration that has been taken since pre-hispanic times.

The Itinerary

We will start the day in the first town by visiting the local cemetery where we will walk around families preparing their relatives graves, we will see children running around asking for candy and mothers and daughters carefully placing flowers and candles on their relatives’ graves. We will end the visit to this town by enjoying a really delicious Mexican lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon we will visit another cemetery with amazing decorated graves and will end the night watching the alumbrada or “illuminated”, the tradition enjoyed by local residents where they light thousands of candles in cemeteries in order to illuminate the arrival of the souls.

The Pricing

Sending the booking fee to Pata de Perro DF grants & constitutes consent to the terms and conditions explained here

Our tours begin at your arranged pickup time and end at the time of your drop-off.

what's exactly included?

-Delicious Traditional Mexican dish mole and other goodies at a lovely Mexican restaurant (vegetarian options available).

-Evening tacos or quesadillas with drinks.

-Transportation in a comfortable van from the meeting point to drop-off point.

-Bilingual (English-Spanish) guide. This tour will be guided by Gabriel Talavera, founder of Pata de Perro DF.

-Water, Beer, Mezcal, soft drinks and other surprises included on our trip.

DETAILED ITINERARY

The tour is scheduled for November 2nd only, starting at 10:00 am and concluding around 9-10 pm (with arrival in Mexico City approximately an hour after departure). We will drop you off at Location TBD, where you'll find a secure taxi station for your convenience (taxi or Uber fare not included).

TOUR GALLERY

Oaxaca Day of the Dead 2024: Ultimate Travel Planning Guide

Is Dia de Muertos on Your Mexico bucket list?

Smart choice! and you’ve landed on the right article to learn how to plan your trip to Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico. I went to the 2018 celebration, and went again in 2022 .

Oaxaca is truly one of the best travel destinations in Mexico; one not enough people have experienced. Its most popular cultural celebration, Oaxaca Day of the Dead , is a bucket list Mexico experience for many.

In this article, I’m going to share all my Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos travel tips, so you can have as amazing of a time as I did. By the end of this article, you’ll know all about Oaxaca City, where the festival takes place.

Prefer a group tour with everything planned for you?

This 7 Day Oaxaca Day of the Dead Tour has an amazing trip itinerary where you’ll venture off the beaten path to experience this amazing Mexico holiday like a local.

As Day of the Dead is just two days long, November 1-2, many stick around Oaxaca City for a few extra days, or head to the beautiful beaches of Oaxaca to lengthen the trip — so we’ll cover that as well.

Besides all that, you’ll learn about the history of Day of the Dead, the symbolism of things like ofrendas (altars), sugar skulls and La Catrina herself, which Oaxaca cemeteries to visit, and where to stay in Oaxaca City, Mexico.

In short, we’re covering everything you need to know for an epic Dia de los Muertos trip to Mexico. Ready to learn about all things Oaxaca Day of the Dead? Let’s get to it 🌺💀🌺

Is Oaxaca Day of the Dead 2023 Canceled?

No — The celebration is in no danger of being cancelled in 2023. Barring unforeseen circumstances, it will be a full-scale festival.

I have received messages from readers about the Oaxaca Covid situation, and how it will affect Día de Muertos Oaxaca 2023. While no one can make any guarantees, there’s also no reason to believe the festival will not take place.

At this time, no official announcements have come from the local government in Oaxaca City.

However, do know that if they do, they likely won’t make any official statements about Oaxaca’s Day of the Dead events until October 2023!

I know this cuts it close for many travelers, but the government didn’t release a statement about Oaxaca Day of the Dead 2022 until early-October 2022 — just days before the holiday.

As many expected, the festival was back to it’s pre-pandemic glory in 2022, and expected to also be in 2023!

It was actually the first full celebration of Day of the Dead in Oaxaca City since 2019.

The 2020 festival was cancelled entirely, and the the 2021 festival saw a scaled down version, but Day of the Dead 2022 was back with a vengeance. I was there, and it was amazing!

With the number of Coronavirus cases at a completely manageable level in Mexico, I’m optimistic for 2023 — and even plan to attend! For those who are going, make sure to book your tours ASAP , as they will sell out.

• 7 Day Oaxaca Day of the Dead Tour
• Celebrating Day of the Dead in Oaxaca Tour
• Day of the Dead Ancient Ceremony
• Prepare an Altar for the Day of the Dead
• Day of the Dead, Night in the Cemetery
• Traditional Mexico Festival of the Dead in Oaxaca

Planning for Oaxaca Day of the Dead 202 3

Where is Oaxaca, Mexico located?

The state of Oaxaca is located in southern Mexico, just a one-hour flight from Mexico City. You can also take a Mexico City to Oaxaca bus, but it takes about 7-8 hours.

Oaxaca City is in the center of Oaxaca state . It is not only the capital city, but also the state’s cultural, historic, artistic and agricultural hub. The entire Downtown Oaxaca City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

🗺️ Oaxaca Map

Oaxaca de juarez.

You may hear Oaxaca City referred to by a few names. Officially, it’s Oaxaca de Juarez , though most people simply refer to the eclectic city of Oaxaca as “Oaxaca” (pronounced  wa-ha-kah ).

As Oaxaca is both the name of the city and state, you may want to clarify what the person means when they say Oaxaca — they usually mean the city, but not always .

OAXACA DAY OF THE DEAD Mexico

How do i get to oaxaca city.

Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX), located just 20-30 minutes from Downtown Oaxaca, has direct flights from U.S. cities including Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, LA and Chicago.

In Mexico, you can catch a connecting flight to Oaxaca Airport from Mexico City , Tijuana, Guadalajara , Cancun and Monterrey .

Best Oaxaca Airport Transfers

Is there uber in oaxaca city.

There’s no Uber in Oaxaca, and no Lyft in Oaxaca , but there are taxis and some public transportation options.

Keep in mind Oaxaca Day of the Dead is the busiest week of the year, so you’ll want to consider this top-rated, private Oaxaca Airport transfer . If not, you can wait up to over an hour for an airport taxi!

You can also grab a taxi or take the colectivo (small, shared van) once you arrive at Oaxaca International OAX Airport.

The colectivo costs about $3-5 USD per person, and a private taxi will be about $15-25 USD to get to Downtown Oaxaca City.

Best Oaxaca Car Rentals

Wondering, Should I get a Oaxaca car rental? In my opinion, if you’re just staying in the city itself, skip the rental car.

If you’re planning to take any Oaxaca day trips and explore Oaxaca before or after Day of the Dead, a Oaxaca rental car will come in handy. The OAX Airport is the best place for car rentals in Oaxaca City.

🚙💨 For more information, and 10 Mexico driving tips, head to Renting A Car in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know .

Best Car Rental in OAXACA: Discover Cars

When I rent a car in Mexico, I recommend, and personally use , Discover Cars .

They compare both local Mexican companies and all the big name corporate car rental companies, so you get the best price. Also, they offer FREE cancelation up to 48 hours before your reservation.

Lastly, their Full Coverage Policy is the cheapest I’ve found at about $10 USD per day. (⚠️ Note: In case you were wondering, you do need Mexican insurance to drive in Mexico, and your U.S. insurance does not cover you.)

If you’ll be renting a car in Oaxaca, double check the parking policy at your Oaxaca accommodation . Some offer free parking, but with others, you may have to pay extra to park.

Mexico City to Oaxaca City

Mexico City to OaXACA Flights

Domestic flight travel within Mexico is quick, convenient, and relatively inexpensive on low cost carriers like AeroMexico, Volaris and VivaAerobus.

Note: VivaAerobus is the equivalent to Spirit Airlines in the United States, so always remember, you get what you pay for them with.

In general, the bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca costs about $40 USD, and can take eight hours. However, you can often find Oaxaca plane tickets for as little as $50 USD, for the one hour flight.

Of course, the bus has less of a carbon footprint, so some travelers might opt for the bus over a flight.

Mexico City to Oaxaca Bus

Mexico City is located about 7-8 hours by bus from Oaxaca City, with overnight trip options available.

If you’re looking into the buses, check for luxury class tickets through Mexico’s largest bus company, ADO . The luxury tickets are a little more expensive, but a lot more comfy.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: Best Neighborhoods & Best Hotels in Oaxaca

As they say — Location, location, location. Where you stay for Oaxaca Day of the Dead can make, or break , your trip.

For convenience, choose from the three Oaxaca neighborhoods listed below so you’ll have lots of amenities like restaurants , mezcal bars , ATMs and pharmacies within walking distance.

🚕💨 Oaxaca Travel Tips

There’s no Uber in Oaxaca and no Lyft in Oaxaca . However, there are taxis and buses. There’s also Oaxaca public transportation, but it isn’t great.

While taxis are usually easy to get, they take longer to hail during Dia de Muertos, the busiest time to visit Oaxaca, Mexico.

Centro Historico (Downtown Oaxaca City)

As with most cities in Mexico, you can’t go wrong staying in or around Centro Historico. This is the Historic City Center, or downtown.

This is the area where most Day of the Dead festivities take place, and a walkable part of town, so you won’t need to worry about catching a cab during this busy time in Oaxaca.

Located within Oaxaca Centro Historico, you’ll find some of the best hotels in Oaxaca, like these:

• Quinta Real Oaxaca ($$$$)
• Casa Antonieta Oaxaca ($$$$)
• Casa Oaxaca Hotel ($$$$)
• Casa de las Bugambilias B&B ($$$)
• Hotel Casona Oaxaca ($$)
• Selina Hostel ($) — This is one of the best hostels in Oaxaca City, with single room dorms and private room options.

Jalatlaco Oaxaca City (Best Neighborhood in Oaxaca)

Located one neighborhood over from Downtown Oaxaca, you’ll find trendy, colorful Jalatlaco (pronounced ha-lat-lack-oh ). This is a very safe area, with amazing restaurants , cool street art and colorful, colonial buildings.

The best hotel in Oaxaca City’s Jalatlaco neighborhood is City Centro Hotel Oaxaca . This is the famous pink Oaxaca hotel that’s quite famous on Instagram (seen in the photo above).

This one often sells out quickly, but Hotel Cazomalli Oaxaca is another nearby option.

Xochimilco Oaxaca

Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co ), located north of Centro, is another one of the best neighborhoods in Oaxaca City.

This is the oldest, most historic Oaxaca neighborhood, so you’ll still get the colonial city feel in the buildings, but be further away from the crowds and noise.

🌺💀🌺 Oaxaca Travel Tip: Day of the Dead is LOUD! You’ll want noise canceling earbuds or noise canceling ear plugs to get a good night’s sleep during this festive holiday.

Being on the outskirts of Centro Historico means great value at Oaxaca boutique hotels, like El Callejón Hotel ($$$) and Casa de Arte ($$).

In these, you’re also near one of the most historic and best things to see in Oaxaca City ; an 18th century aqueduct that runs along Callejon Rufino Tamayo street.

Oaxaca Day of the Dead Tips

Now that you know how to get to Oaxaca City, let’s get into some specifics about the actual Oaxaca Day of the Dead in Mexico festival.

Besides the Day of the Dead dates, which are November 1st and 2nd, there are two key things to keep in mind for Day of the Dead travel planning:

1. Book Oaxaca accommodation as AP

Oaxaca City is a smaller town, and eventually, ALL Oaxaca hotels, Oaxaca VRBOs , Oaxaca Airbnbs, and all Oaxaca hostels will eventually sell out. It happens every year — I’m not kidding folks!

If you have particular needs when it comes to where you stay (ie. no stairs, quiet area, full kitchen, on-site parking), book early so you find a place that checks those boxes.

Check out these articles to help you pick the best Oaxaca hotels for Day of the Dead:

• Best 5-Star Hotels in Oaxaca City
• Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
• Best Hotels in Oaxaca with a Pool
• Best Hotels in Oaxaca City
• Best Hostels in Oaxaca City

2. Book Day of the Dead tours as AP

If you’re looking to do a Day of the Dead tour in Oaxaca, you’ll want to book these well in advance, and as early as possible.

For the most part, tours are kept small at just 5-10 people, and thousands attend this Oaxaca festival — so the tours all end up selling out as well.

OAxaca DAY OF THE DEAD mexico

Oaxaca day of the dead tours.

As a lot of Mexican tour companies don’t have websites, so unless someone has recommended you a tour company by name, it’s not super easy to locate Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos tours online.

Note: Facebook is usually a better place to find Mexican companies and local businesses than Google. You’ll also want to check Facebook pages for up-to-date info about local businesses throughout the course of the week.

Since this festival also doesn’t have an official list of events posted online for you to research in advance, local tour guides are a game changer.

They will know best to show you where to find the best cemeteries, comparsas (boisterous parades with a live band), fireworks and festivities taking place.

Prefer a group tour with local Guides?

This 7 Day Oaxaca Day of the Dead Tour has an amazing trip itinerary planned, but also plenty of free time to experience Day of the Dead Mexico like a local.

If you want to do a group tour, and don’t want to spend hours (or days ) searching for a Day of the Dead Oaxaca tour company, book an Airbnb Experience or group tour with Viator — you can book some below right now.

These tours are all led by Oaxaca locals, so you’re in good hands. Here are a few of the best tours in Oaxaca City, with a heavy focus on Day of the Dead and other uniquely Oaxacan cultural experiences.

• Traditional Festival of the Dead in Oaxaca
• Prepare an Altar for The Day of the Dead
• Nocturnal Walk of Urban Legends

OAxaca DAY OF THE DEAD Mexico

What is day of the dead.

Day of the Dead is one of the most important holiday celebrations in Oaxaca, and one of the best Mexican holidays . There are vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations throughout Mexico, not just in Oaxaca City.

Since this is a highly symbolic holiday , the answer to What is Dia de los Muertos? is quite complex. However, the most important thing you need to know about Day of the Dead is that it is not Mexican Halloween.

Unlike many present-day rituals around death, Day of the Dead is not a somber funerary event.

On the contrary, Oaxaca Dia de Muertos is a celebration, one so grand even our deceased loved ones return to attend the party held in their honor.⁠

As this is a cultural celebration, booking a tour with a Oaxaca City local is the best way to truly appreciate all of Oaxaca’s celebrations.

However, even on days you don’t have a tour booked, you can just walk around Centro Historico (Downtown) and take in the visual magic that is Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca City.

History of Dia de los Muertos

The holiday’s origins date back to the Aztec celebration of the goddess Mictecacihuatl , their Queen of the Underworld.

Much like the current incarnation of Day of the Dead, the Aztec festival was a celebratory affair — as is the Mayan Day of the Dead festival called Hanal Pixan .

After Mexican colonization by the Spanish, who brought with them Christianity, the festival was moved from early-summer to fall.

Its new dates coincided with what Christians called Allhallowtide, another multi-day holiday commemorating the deceased.

Allhallowtide took place on October 31-November 2. The first day, October 31, was known as All Saints Eve; November 1 was All Saints Day; and November 2 was All Souls Day.

When is Day of the Dead?

Though it’s called “Day” of the Dead, the holiday takes place over two days each year, November 1-2 , and the different days of the festival correspond to different spirits.

What day is the Day of the Dead day?

Wondering, What day is Day of the Dead in Mexico? The actual Day of the Dead is November 2nd .

However, let’s break it all down further, because this really is a multi-day celebration:

As the spirits of our departed are said to return each day at midnight, many celebrations take place at night — so you might see some sources say Day of the Dead is October 31-November 2.

However, some celebrations start as early as October 28 in different parts of the state.

Since the first day of the celebration starts on November 1, the spirits will return at midnight, which is basically the night of October 31.

Though this is technically the “eve” of Dia de Muertos, much like Christmas Eve, many consider it a festival day.

As you might imagine with such an elaborate affair, the Oaxaca City preparations begin at least a week prior.

It’s really fun to see the city getting decorated with marigold flowers and watching the ofrendas (colorful altars) being constructed, and visiting the cemeteries during the day.

Oaxaca Day of the Dead Itinerary

October 31st.

Wondering, When does Day of the Dead start? The first day is November 1 at midnight, which is why many say it starts on October 31.

What to expect on All Saint’s Eve

Though not an official festival day, many families observe October 31st, the former All Saints’ Eve, by building elaborate ofrendas (altars) on the cemetery gravestone of their deceased loved one.

As the eve of the souls returning, these preparations must be ready for the spirits’ arrival at midnight.

There’s a lot of energy in town, as people are ready to officially celebrate Dia de los Muertos after weeks of prep.

Families visit the town’s cemeteries to decorate their loved ones’ graves and gravestones, and many put the finishing touches on the ofrendas (altars) outside of their homes.

What to do in Oaxaca on October 31

This is a great day to simply walk around the city, especially Centro Historico (Downtown Oaxaca City) and the Zocalo near the Oaxaca Cathedral.

An orientation walk like this is always a good idea so you get your bearings and get to know the city layout.

You can pop into all the shops and art galleries to see all the elaborate altars and floral displays, but don’t forget to look down at the sand art on the ground.

At night, don’t miss the Magna Comparsa , a main event in downtown. Magna Comparsa means Grand Parade, and this is the first official parade to open the Day of the Dead holiday.

You can also check out the local cemeteries, as they will be decorated by now. In fact, the decorations are usually up by October 27th, or sometime around the end of October, but definitely a few days before October 31st.

November 1st: Day of the Little Angels

What was formerly known as All Saints’ Day in the Catholic tradition, is present-day  Día de los Angelitos  (Day of the Little Angels).

This Day of the Little Angels on November 1 honors the children who have passed. Their spirits returned the night before, at midnight, but parties continue all day.

Note:  You may also see this day called the  Día de los Inocentes , or Day of the Innocents. However, don’t confuse it with the Day of Holy Innocents  Mexican holiday , which is on December 28th.

What to expect on All Saint’s Day

Celebrations in cemeteries, as well as comparsas (theatrical parades), ofrendas (altars) in the streets and other city-wide festivities.

There are large booths with vendors set up near the Cathedral, selling Oaxaca art and Mexican folk art from other states in the country. This will often last from early November until the end of weekend following Day of the Dead.

What to do in oaxaca on November 1

The entire town is decorated and in full festival mode, and you’ll want to spend time walking around the colorful Jalatlaco neighborhood and eating some delicious Oaxacan food .

There will be smaller parades all night in the city, or you can head to the giant celebration in San Agustin Etla, Oaxaca.

San Agustin Etla pueblo is located about 35 minutes from Downtown Oaxaca. It has the biggest, most wild comparsa , and most beautiful cemetery.

I went with a small tour group booked through Agrado Guest House Hotel , and we were the only non-locals at the San Agustin Etla comparsa .

November 2nd: Day of the Dead

Formerly known as All Souls’ Day, November 2nd is the actual Day of the Dead day . On this day, family members and loved ones celebrate the adults in their life who no longer walk the Earth.

The spirits of all adults returned the night before, at midnight, but parties will continue all day.

What to expect on All Soul’s Day

More celebrations in cemeteries, as well as comparsas (parades), ofrendas (altars) in the streets and other festivities.

If Day of the Dead Oaxaca is starting to sound like one giant party, it is — but November 2 is often the most low-key day of the holiday.

What to do in oaxaca on November 2

If there was any place you wanted to see in town, like a shop, restaurant , cafe or art gallery, you’ll want to head there early. Many places have shortened hours for the holiday, though some don’t open at all.

If not, just enjoy the last few hours of parades and decorations and festivities.

Arriving Early, or Staying After the Festival

Extending your Oaxaca trip?

As Oaxaca Day of the Dead is a two-day festival, many will arrive early, or stay after.

💁‍♀️ Here’s one of my best Oaxaca travel tips: Head to the best Oaxaca beaches , like Puerto Escondido , Zipolite, Huatulco and Mazunte , after the festival to decompress.

If beaches aren’t your thing, there are plenty of things to do in Oaxaca City . You can enjoy a mezcal tasting or one of these best Oaxaca mezcal tours , visit Monte Alban Ruins archeological site, and more.

In fact, there are unique places to visit in Oaxaca all over the state and great day trips from Oaxaca .

These include the surrounding areas of Hierve el Agua , San Felipe del Agua and San Pablo Villa de Mitla .

This is one of the Oaxaca pueblos magicos , or Mexico magic towns, famed for their indigenous culture.

Visiting Mexico City

If you have the time for a long journey, you’re also only a one hour flight from Mexico City. This is the largest city on the continent, and a good place to really get to know Mexico.

There’s no end to the things to do in Mexico City — including museums , tacos , ancient ruins , amazing restaurants , and so much more. In fact, I lived in Mexico City for a year, and still didn’t see it all!

10 Day of the Dead Do’s and Don’ts

🟢 Do: Book your Oaxaca hotel , Oaxaca VRBO or Oaxaca hostel , and your Day of the Dead tours well in advance. (You’ve been warned 💀)

🟢 Do: Participate! When you see a parade going by, jump in and start dancing with the locals.

This holiday is about remembering the deceased, so many local families in Oaxaca do love i when you ask about their departed loved ones honored on the altars.

🟢 Do: Have a day where your only plan is to walk the city. During Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, the whole town is transformed for this giant party, so explore as much as you can while the decorations are up.

🟢 Do: Ask for permission to take photos. To err on the side of caution, get permission from families in the cemeteries and at their ofrendas (altars), and when photographing people.

🟢 Do: Carry cash on you at all times. In Mexico, cash is still king, and in Oaxaca City, many places don’t take cards. This is especially true with taxis, in any local market ( mercados ), and with street vendors, which will all be cash only.

🟢 Do: Pack noise canceling earbuds or noise canceling earplugs to get a good night’s sleep during this festive holiday. Day of the Dead is basically a three-day party with loud music and city-wide celebrations.

🛑 Don’t: Treat this as a tourist attraction. The Day of the Dead Festival is a centuries-old cultural tradition, so have fun, but know this is not the same thing as getting wasted on Bourbon Street during Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

🛑 Don’t: Touch or disturb anything, including altars, cemetery decorations, and sand art on the ground.

🛑 Don’t: Use flash photography anywhere. To be safe you’ll want to just turn your flash from auto to off so it doesn’t accidentally go flash at the wrong moment.

🛑 Don’t: On that note, don’t wear American-style elaborate costumes — especially not the “sexy” variety you see on Buzzfeed lists.

This is Dia de Muertos in Mexico, not Halloween in the U.S., and it has a different vibe. 💃 For an idea of what’s appropriate to wear, head here .

How to Dress for Day of the Dead

Wondering what to wear for Day of the Dead in Oaxaca? As mentioned, this is not a time for the “sexy costumes” that are popular in the United States.

However, since it’s Dia de Muertos, you’ll want to pack a special dress to enjoy the nighttime festivities — like the ones below ⤵

You can also head to a local Oaxaca City mercado (market), like Mercado 20 de Noviembre Market and Mercado Benito Juarez Market, to buy a dress.

Costumes are the norm for locals, and many do go all out, with traditional Oaxacan garments and face painting.

Want to get your face painted like La Catrina, the famous Day of the Dead Woman?

You don’t need to bring all your makeup for La Catrina face painting, as you can just pay someone about $50-100 pesos ($3-6 USD) on the street to do it.

You, however, will want a good makeup remover to get it off at the end of the night. This should be one of your Day of the Dead essentials!

You’ll find plenty of vendors selling inexpensive flower crowns to complete the look — or you can go all out with one of these elaborate flower crown headbands 🌸

You can also visit one of the Oaxaca mercados mentioned above, as you’ll sometimes find vendors selling fresh flower crowns.

Day of the Dead Symbols & Customs

1. day of the dead cemeteries.

Oct. 31 is the date many families will begin to decorate gravestones in the cemetery. If you can, try to be in Oaxaca City to see this, especially if you’re into travel photography .

The biggest of Oaxaca City’s cemetery celebrations takes place at the Panteon General (AKA San Miguel Cemetery).

If you’re venturing outside of Oaxaca City, head to the Panteon Viejo and Panteon Nuevo in Xoxocotlan, and the Panteon San Agustin Etla in San Agustin Etla.

Both towns are known for lively celebrations, though you’ll want to have a guided tour booked, or transportation in place before going. If you’re renting a car in Oaxaca , you can drive, but know the roads can get hectic.

You can also check out the nearby towns of San Bartolo Coyotepec and Teotitlan del Valle. These different villages are a short drive from Oaxaca City, but rife with authentic Mexican culture and ancient tradition.

2. Day of the Dead Sugar Skulls

One of the icons of this holiday is the Day of the Dead sugar skull. Ironically enough, these confectionery treats don’t really have Mexican (or even pre-Hispanic) roots, and come from Europe.

Italian Catholic missionaries brought sugar art to Mexico in the 1600s. Unlike Europe, Mexico is abundant in sugar and sugarcane, so it became a natural place for these molded sugar figures to take root and form their own traditions.

Small sugar skulls vs large sugar skulls

During Día de Muertos, sugar skulls will be made in two sizes — large and small.

The small, bite-sized sugar skulls can be eaten. You’ll also see them used for an in-home ofrenda as a family altar decoration. They can be taken home, and make for one of the best Oaxaca souvenirs.

The larger ones represent a departed person, and that person’s name is written on the forehead of the skull. They can be in honor and remembrance of the departed children or of an adult.

You’ll usually see these more elaborate, larger sugar skulls placed on an ofrenda or gravestone for that person’s returning spirit. These larger sugar skulls are not meant to be eaten, as they’re part of the atmospheric vigils.

3. Marigold Flowers

The marigold flower, or cempasuchil (pronounced sem-pa-souch-ill ), has been a part of this celebration dating back to its Aztec origins.

Throughout Mexico, marigolds are often called flor de los muertos (flower of the dead) because of their close associations with Day of the Dead .

According to Aztecs beliefs, the flower’s bright color and strong scent served a sensory guide for the spirits. They believed the marigold flowers let our departed know exactly where they should return to meet us.

Nowadays, no Day of the Dead ofrenda (altar) is complete without some cempasuchil flowers on it.

You’ll also see marigolds and terciopelo rojo flowers (cockscomb) all over Oaxaca City — on restaurant tables and as elaborate floral archways outside shops.

🌮🍺 Discover the best Oaxaca restaurants! Head here to get a FREE Oaxaca Map with 33 places pinned so you can easily find all the top restaurants , street food stands and Oaxaca mezcal bars.

4. La Catrina : Day of the Dead Skeleton Woman

Besides Frida Kahlo, La Catrina might be the woman most commonly associated with Mexico.

This elegant skeletal lady, who everyone paints their faces to look like, was born in 1910 when Mexican printmaker/illustrator Jose Guadalupe Posada first drew her.

He named this figure, La Calavera Garbancera (The Elegant Skull), and she was drawn as satirical social commentary.

His dapper woman with her fancy feathered-hat was a critique of Mexican society at the time, when many Mexicans were aspiring to dress and act more European.

Posada saw this as a snub to the more humble, and traditional style of Mexican dress.

He created his  Calavera Garbancera character as a skeleton who would serve as a reminder that we all eventually die one day — whether we’re wearing fancy clothing or not.

History of La Catrina, Day of the Dead Icon

La Catrina’s transition into the official grand dame of Day of the Dead came after Mexican artist Diego Rivera (Frida’s husband) painted her with a full-body and Victorian dress.

Using a similar face, he took Posada’s La Calavera Garbancera and created who would become known as La Catrina.

Rivera’s 50-foot-long (15 m) painting, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Central Park), is the first-ever depiction of La Catrina.

She is placed in the dead center of the painting (pun intended), with Rivera painted as a boy by her side. Just behind them, you’ll see Frida Kahlo .

🎨 Want to see the painting in real life? You’ll need to head to Downtown Mexico City , to the Diego Rivera Mural Museum, one of the best museums in Mexico City .

5. Comparsas (Day of the Dead Parades)

What are the parades in Oaxaca called?

A parade in Oaxaca is called either compara or muerteada .

You’ll usually hear the comparsa long before you see it coming. This is great because it gives you time to find it, and then join in with the procession as it passes through the streets

During the comparsas or muerteadas, multi-instrument groups of costumed musicians join together to play festive Zapotec (native Oaxacan) music in the streets.

Anyone can join in at any part along the route, and they are usually headed to a cemetery in Oaxaca City or to Downtown Oaxaca City .

The Grand Parade, or Magna Comparsa (as seen in this Day of the Dead YouTube video ), is the one that opens the festival, and goes all over the city.

After it, there will be smaller comparsas, both day and night, and sometimes into the early morning hours around 1am (don’t forget your ear plugs ).

6. Ofrendas (Day of the Dead Altars)

Just walking the streets and alleyways of downtown Oaxaca City, you’ll see hundreds of ofrendas (altars).

They’re decorated with marigold flowers, candles, copal incense and papel picado colorful paper flags. You’ll also see photos of their loved ones, and whatever food and drink they’d want to consume on their arrival.

They say when the dead return they will be hungry and thirsty from the journey, so we have to prepare accordingly.

7. Day of the Dead Sand Tapestries

In front of some ofrendas throughout Oaxaca City, you’ll find colorful and intricate tapetes de arena (sand tapestries).

If you’re very lucky, you’ll even see an artist making one. For this, you would need to arrive to Oaxaca City before the festival starts, around October 29th.

🌼 Oaxaca Travel Tip: Each year, a different neighborhood hosts the annual Sand Tapestry Competition, so make sure to find out where the this year’s will be.

The tradition of sand art plays into the deeper meaning of Day of the Dead, that all things eventually blow away in the wind, or die.

For this reason, you’ll also see ground art made of other natural materials the wind can carry away, like marigold flower petals and even beans.

8. Pan de Muerto (Day of the Dead Bread )

Pan de muerto (Bread of the dead) is a type of bread roll or pastry that’s traditionally only made from about mid-September to mid-November for Day of the Dead.

It is most peoples’ favorite food associated with the holiday, and the pan de muerto recipe and preparation can vary.

☕️ Oaxaca Travel Tip: Many indigenous people of Oaxaca enjoy their pan de muerto dipped in a cup of hot chocolate. This is also the best way to enjoy other local foods , especially pan dulce , or sweet bread.

In Oaxaca, unlike many other places in the rest of Mexico, there’s a small candy face placed in the center of the bread. This is said to represent a departed soul.

However, in many other parts of Mexico, the pan de muerto dough has a cross shape on the top of the roll, and it’s topped with sugar. In Oaxaca City, the bread is topped with sesame seeds and isn’t as sweet.

To sample some, head to a panaderia (bakery), or the local markets in Oaxaca . You might also find Oaxaca pan de muerto for sale from a street vendor.

9. Alebrijes: Oaxaca Art

Alebrijes (pronounced al-lay-bree-hays) aren’t officially a part of Day of the Dead, but they have made their way into the celebrations. They are the most famous Oaxaca art, and among the best Mexican folk art.

Wooden alebrije sculptures were first made by Mexican artist Pedro Linares, in Mexico City. They made their way to Oaxaca art tows , like San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca, located near Oaxaca City, and became a holiday fixture.

Still, the first person to make them was Linares. At age 30, the artist suffered an illness which left him bedridden in pain, and having fever dreams at night.

One night, he saw what he named an alebrije , a hybrid animal, which he said served as a spirit guide through his frightening, vivid dreams.

He made an artistic representation of his colorful spirit guide, and Oaxaca alebrijes were born. Linares made them out of paper mache, but in Oaxaca, you’ll find them made of copal wood, and painted with bright colors.

The Oaxaca pueblos of San Martín Tilcajete and San Antonio Arrazola are now known as the Alebrije Towns, as many other artisans in town have started making alebrijes . These are two of the most popular Oaxaca artisan towns.

You may be familiar with alebrijes from the movie Coco , which has two alebrijes in it, Dante and Pepita . There’s also this great National Geographic feature about Oaxacan alebrijes.

10. Mojigangas (Giant Puppets)

Mojigangas (pronounced moe-he-gawn-gahs) come from Spain, but were brought to Mexico in the 1600s.

They are about 15-feet-tall (4.5 m), and a part of many celebrations in Central Mexico, especially festivals in Oaxaca and weddings in San Miguel de Allende . You’ll likely see some mojigangas during Day of the Dead.

Oaxaca Mexico Travel Guide & FAQ

How do they celebrate Day of the Dead in Oaxaca?

You can expect large street parties, plenty of festive decorations all over town, La Catrina face painting, traditional dress and dancing, large altars in the streets (especially near downtown), and so much more.

Did Day of the Dead originate in Oaxaca?

No — It is a holiday celebrated in others parts of Latin America, like Guatemala and Bolivia, not just Mexico. However, the Mexican Day of the Dead festivities are the most lively and best-known; particularly those in Oaxaca City.

How long is the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca?

The holiday is two-days-long, and celebrated November 1-2. However, in Oaxaca City, festivities start to begin about 5 days prior.

Is Day of the Dead better in Oaxaca or Mexico City?

It depends on who you ask! The Mexico City Day of the Dead parade and celebration is large and lively — but the Oaxaca Day of the Dead festival is more of a cultural celebration.

Is Oaxaca safe to travel to?

Short answer: Yes — For the cast majority of visitors, Oaxaca is safe for travel.

Longer answer: Aside from drinking too much mezcal , you’re in little danger in Oaxaca. In fact, Oaxaca is one of the safest states in Mexico . It is a great place to visit during Day of the Dead, and any time of year.

⚠️ If you’d like to do a deep dive into this topic, check out Is Oaxaca Safe for Travelers Right Now? to get Oaxaca travel safety advice, Oaxaca travel tips and more.

Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble pueblo (small town) vibe.

As no place on Earth is 100% safe, you’ll want to follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below — the same ones you’d follow when traveling anywhere.

You should also register for the STEP Program and put your mind at ease with travel insurance .

Wondering Should I get travel insurance for Mexico?

The answer is of course yes ! It will give you an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times.

Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while traveling.

If Mexico and Oaxaca travel safety are on your mind, get your free quote below from World Nomads and Safety Wing, two of the biggest names in travel insurance.

• Safety Wing : Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomads who travel for extended periods of time.
• World Nomads : Perfect for those who want to do adventurous activities while traveling.
• World Nomads : Among the biggest names in travel insurance, World Nomads has their Standard Plan for general travel, and Explorer Plan for adventure travelers. World Nomads plans average $5-10USD per day.
• Safety Wing : Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomad who travel for extended periods of time — with plans starting at just $45USD per month!
• Don’t walk home alone at night if you can help it; take a taxi.
• Always listen to your intuition because your intuition is always right.
• If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place immediately. If you feel you’re in danger, don’t worry about making a kind, nice, or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away ASAP.
• Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket. Better yet, invest in an anti-theft purse or anti-theft backpack .
• Brush up on your Spanish-speaking skills with Rocket Spanish — which will have you confident and conversational after just a few modules.
• Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe or bar neighbor to watch your things.
• Speaking of bar neighbors, don’t take drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended with one.
• Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
• Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to pay.

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc.

STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

Many Oaxaqueños (native Oaxacans) don’t speak English, however with so many U.S., Canadian and European tourists, they get by.

If you stick to the popular areas of Oaxaca, like Oaxaca City , and the beaches of Puerto Escondido and Huatulco , tour operators and people in the service industry often speak English.

However, when venturing off the beaten path in Oaxaca, you can expect little to no English.

As with traveling anywhere, it is good manners to learn at least some basic Spanish when traveling to Oaxaca and anywhere in Mexico. If you want to brush up before your trip, Rocket Spanish will have you confident and conversational in no time!

🎧 Listen to Episode 13 of the podcast as travel blogger Elizabeth talk about how she learned eight languages, and gives great tips for how to learn language basics in easy, fun ways.

If learning Spanish isn’t in the cards for you, #NoJudgement!

Pin and/or save the infographic below on your phone so you’ll always have the words and phrases you need, even if you’re off-WiFi.

Is Oaxaca safe for solo travelers?

I attended Day of the Dead as a solo female traveler in Oaxaca, and felt very safe.

However, I’ve done a lot of Mexico solo travel , and likely have a biased opinion.

In an effort to add more solo female travel in Mexico voices to the conversation, check out Rebecca’s solo travel in Oaxaca story.

For a deep dive into the subject of Mexico travel safety, check out Is Mexico Safe? 25 Tips to Stay Safe in Mexico .

🎧 Prefer podcasts? This Mexico podcast is full of tips for Mexico solo female travel safety, which you can use during Oaxaca solo travel and beyond.

Do Americans need a visa for Mexico?

No — U.S., Canadian and most European and Asian passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico. To see if you need a Mexico visa, head here .

Note: You also don’t need to show proof of vaccination to travel to Mexico.

When you arrive in Mexico and go through Customs and Immigration, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card . This is a small piece of paper that you need to have on you at all times, as it proves you’re in the country legally.

You also have to give your FMM back to a Customs and Immigration officer at the airport when leaving Mexico.

If you lose it, there is a fee of about $600 MXN pesos ($30 USD) to get a new one — so don’t lose your FMM .

⚠️ Update: Many Mexico airports are now using the passport stamp in lieu of the paper FMM visa. You won’t know what you’ll be getting until you arrive, but they are both valid.

What do I pack for Oaxaca?

For the most part, Oaxaca weather averages 80-90°F (26-32°C) during the day, and 60-70°Fs (15-21°C) at night. Oaxaca has a desert climate, so pack layers .

With Oaxaca’s sunny, hot days, pack a Water-To-Go Bottle to stay hydrated, eco-friendly sunscreen to avoid sunburns. If you plan on drinking a lot of Oaxaca mezcal , don’t forget to pack these anti-hangover meds .

Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download

As far as how to dress, Oaxacans are modest dressers, so pants or jeans with sleeved tops are the norm, even on hot days. However, sundresses, flowy, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing works.

At night, you’ll want a jacket and boots in Oaxaca City. The temperature in Oaxaca can drop about 20°F (about 10°C) from day to night, so be mindful.

Packing for Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

Since it’s Dia de Muertos, you might want to pack a special dress or outfit to enjoy the nighttime festivities — like these .

You can also head to a local Oaxaca City mercado (market), like Mercado 20 de Noviembre and Mercado Benito Juarez, to buy a dress.

🧳 FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Wondering exactly what to pack for Oaxaca and all of Mexico? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico here .

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico .

Want to get your face painted like La Catrina or El Catrín?

You don’t need to bring all your makeup for La Catrina face painting, as you can just pay someone about $50-100 MXN pesos ($3-6 USD) on the street to do it. You, however, will want a good makeup remover .

You’ll also find plenty of vendors selling inexpensive flower crowns to complete the look — or you can go all out with one of these elaborates flower crown headbands 🌸

Is Day of the Dead in Oaxaca worth It?

As it will take at least two flights, or a flight and a bus to get to Oaxaca City, you might be wondering if traveling to Oaxaca Day of the Dead is worth it. The short answer is — YES it is most certainly worth it!

Oaxaca, in a word, is  magical . Oaxaca is the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be.

This state has it all: rich history, gorgeous beaches , colorful festivals, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made Oaxaca mezcal , beautiful nature, colonial architecture, artisan communities — and of course,  Oaxaca food .

Mix all that with one of the most fun, beautiful, lively, cultural festivals on the planet, and you can’t go wrong with a Oaxaca trip to Dia de Muertos.

Final Thoughts: Oaxaca Day of the Dead in Mexico

I have never met anyone who didn’t enjoy their Mexico Día de Muertos experience — me included. It is a magical time to visit Mexico, but you have to plan ahead if you want to celebrate Day of the Dead in Oaxaca Mexico.

💀 this is Your Final word of warning!

The only caveat for going to Oaxaca Day of the Dead is you have to plan in advance . As I aimed to make this the ultimate guide to the Oaxaca Día de Muertos celebrations, I can’t stress this point enough.

Oaxaca is a small town, and all the hotels , VRBOs , hostels , and Oaxaca Airbnbs will sell out, and so will all the Day of the Dead tours .

If you make sure to book everything in advance, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime

🌺💀🌺 Need more tips for Oaxaca Day of the Dead? Check out this Day of the Dead Mexico podcast to learn even more about attending the Oaxaca Mexico celebration.

Oaxaca Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance for oaxaca.

100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Oaxaca?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling to Oaxaca. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Oaxaca?

Yes — Renting a car in Oaxaca is one of the best ways to see the state. I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Oaxaca companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Oaxaca?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of all Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book places to stay in Oaxaca?

For Oaxaca hotels, Booking.com is the best site . If you’re considering a Oaxaca Airbnb, also check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb. For the best Oaxaca hostels, use HostelWorld .

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Oaxaca flights?

For finding cheap Oaxaca flights, I recommend booking through Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Oaxaca?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but you can check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

The vast majority of travelers will receive a a passport stamp, or 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa upon arrival.

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Day of the Dead in Mexico City: The Best Events, Parades and Festivals in 2023

If you’re considering experiencing the Day of the Dead in Mexico City we’ve got the scoop on the best events for Día De Los Muertos. Dia de los Muertos in Mexico City is an experience like no other with the best Day of the Dead festivals, parades and events.

Mexico City takes center stage as one of the top destinations to experience the magic of this cherished holiday. The Day of the Dead festivities in Mexico City are a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition. At the heart of these celebrations is the renowned Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City, a dazzling spectacle featuring giant fantastical creatures called alebrijes and captivating Catrinas. The city streets come alive with colorful ofrendas (altars)and  lively processions. The sweet aroma of traditional Day of the Dead foods from pan de muerto and Mexican chocolate to ayotes en miel fills the air. It’s a blend of solemnity and joy that makes the Day of the Dead in Mexico a truly unforgettable experience.

During Dia de los Muertos in Mexico City, the entire city transforms into a beautiful canvas, adorned with marigold petals and decorative paper banners known as papel picado. You’ll find vibrant Catrinas, sugar skulls, and beautifully sugar skull painted faces wherever you go. The iconic Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City is a highlight, featuring enormous papier-mâché alebrijes that mesmerize with their intricate designs and vivid colors. This captivating event is among the best Day of the Dead events in Mexico City, drawing both locals and visitors to witness the spectacle. 

Beyond the parade, the city hosts a wide range of Dia de los Muertos events, including exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances, offering a deep dive into the holiday’s cultural significance and artistic expressions. Whether you’re savoring the traditional flavors of Day of the Dead cuisine or admiring the intricate ofrendas, Mexico City provides an immersive journey into the heart of Day of the Dead in Mexico City.

Day of the Dead in Mexico City

From October through the first part of November, Mexico City bursts with lively Day of the Dead celebrations. This is when it’s believed that the spirits of departed loved ones return to visit their families. The city marks this occasion with parades, beautifully decorated altars, and various events that showcase the beauty of this cultural tradition. It’s a special time for both locals and tourists to experience Dia de los Muertos. Keep in mind that the exact dates and times of these events might change, so be sure to check for updates as the festivities draw near.

The Best Dia de los Muertos Events in Mexico City in 2023

La llorona de xochimilco .

This is an extraordinary lakefront opera event that marks the beginning of the Day of the Dead season. La Llorona de Xochimilco features special nighttime boat tours through the scenic canals, departing from the Cuemanco docks in Xochimilco. The cost per person typically ranges from $500 to $600 pesos, and some packages include both the mesmerizing boat tour and a haunting performance that is renowned as one of the city’s most captivating Day of the Dead experiences. This immersive lakefront opera allows you to embrace the cultural significance of Dia de los Muertos while enjoying the eerie and enchanting atmosphere of Xochimilco’s waters. It’s an unforgettable way to kick off the season’s festivities.

• Date: Weekend nights from October 6 through November 19, 2023
• Place: the Cuemanco docks in Xochimilco
• Admission: MX $500 to MX$600  (approx US$28 to US$34)

Annual Alebrijes Parade

The Annual Alebrijes Parade is a spectacular display of wondrous and fantastical creatures, each a vivid manifestation of the imaginative prowess of Mexican artisans. Crafted using a papier-mâché technique known as “cartonería,” these whimsical beings come to life amidst the bustling energy of the Zócalo at noon. Following their vibrant debut, they embark on a captivating journey along the iconic streets of 5 de Mayo and Juárez, passing by the enchanting Alameda Central, and making their way towards the grand Paseo de la Reforma. The parade continues its mesmerizing route, eventually reaching the majestic Ángel de la Independencia. This enchanting procession is a true visual feast, celebrating the creativity and artistry that are an integral part of Mexico’s cultural heritage.

• Date: Saturday, October 21, 2023 They’ll remain on display on the sidewalks until November 5, 2023.
• Place: the Zócalo in Mexico City

The Mega Procession of the Catrinas

The Mega Procession of the Catrinas, also known as the Catrinas Parade, welcomes massive crowds, ranging from passionate participants to those simply looking to witness the spectacle. This annual event has grown increasingly impressive with each passing year, and the nighttime procession has a profound impact on all who attend. Best of all, it’s an entirely free event that unfolds along the iconic Paseo de la Reforma, inviting everyone to partake in the mesmerizing celebration of Dia de los Muertos.

• Date: Sunday October 22 of 2023 They’ll remain on display on the sidewalks until November 5, 2023.
• Place: along the Paseo de la Reforma

Historic Center Ofrendas and Floral Arrangements Festival

The Historic Center Ofrendas and Floral Arrangements Festival captures the essence of one of the most beautiful traditions of the Day of the Dead: the placement of Ofrendas onto altars in homes, local businesses, and public spaces. It’s a heartfelt way for everyone to add their personal touch. As families and friends pay visits to their dearly departed, these Ofrendas come to life with loved ones’ favorite dishes, lanterns , sugar skulls and cherished items from their past life. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread, sweet treats, and the warmth of shared memories. And of course, there’s no shortage of bread, sweets, and even tequila to celebrate the lives and legacies of those who have passed on.

• Date: October 27 to November 4, 2023
• Place: in and all around the Zócalo and surrounding streets

Night of the Axolotl 

The Night of the Axolotl, held at the New Axolotl Museum in Parque de las Aguilas, is an exciting celebration of the Day of the Dead. This festive event goes beyond traditional observances, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Visitors can expect theatrical performances, live music that fills the air with vibrant melodies, a lively costume contest, a diverse sales bazaar, delicious food to satisfy any palate, captivating dance performances, and much more. With two magical nights that extend from 5 p.m. to midnight, it’s an opportunity for families and friends to come together and revel in the spirit of Dia de los Muertos. 

• Date: Friday, October 27 and Saturday October 28, 2023. 5pm to midnight.
• Place:   Axolotl Museum in Parque de las Aguilas
• Admission: MX$150 (approx US$8.50) for adults and MX$100 (approx US$6) for children

The Grand Day of the Dead Parade

 The Grand Day of the Dead Parade is one of the most popular events. This is a newer tradition in Mexico City, inspired by the Dia de los Muertos parade featured in the James Bond movie “Spectre.” It started in 2016 and has become a big part of Dia de los Muertos celebrations. It’s a fascinating parade with colorful floats and performances from different parts of Mexico. The best part is, it’s free to watch! The parade lasts about four hours, but the exact time for this year isn’t known yet. So, if you plan to go, keep an eye out for the schedule and get ready to enjoy the lively Day of the Dead festivities. Check the parade route for 2023 to plan your visit and make the most of this exciting cultural event.

• Date: Saturday, November 4, 2023
• Place:   2023 Day of the Dead Parade Route is here

Recommendations for watching the Day of the Dead Parade in Mexico City

Here are some easy tips for watching the Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City:

• Come at least two hours before the parade begins.
• Try to find a spot near the start of the parade route to avoid waiting too long.
• Plan for a long day. Bring money, snacks, water, and don’t forget sunscreen!

Pan de Muerto and Chocolate Festival in Mexico City

As you step into this delightful festival, you’ll have the chance to savor the traditional Pan de Muerto, a sweet bread synonymous with Dia de los Muertos, paired harmoniously with rich, velvety chocolate. The Pan de Muerto and Chocolate festival offers over 200 varieties of delicious and exclusive bread and chocolates. Some highlights include stuffed pan de muerto like rabbit, custard, and chocolate, as well as flavored pan de muerto such as hibiscus, chocolate, anise, and orange. Traditional and regional pan de muerto options like sugar, sesame, corn husk, pulque, and more are also available. There will also be a wide variety of hot chocolates from Oaxaca and Tabasco including spicy hot chocolate , cold chocolate drinks like horchata de cacao, and solid chocolates including turtles, chocolate-covered marshmallows and chai-flavored chocolate.

• Date: November 3,4 and 5, 2023
• Place:  UNAM Palace of Autonomy just off the Zócalo
• Admission: MX$20 (approx $1.50 ) . Get your Pan de Muerto and Chocolate Festival Tickets here .

Xochimilco Day of the Dead Musical Dinner Tour 

If you’re looking for something different and unique to do for the Day of the Dead in Mexico City this dinner tour is a great option. The immersive tour in Xochimilco begins with the opportunity to savor authentic Mexican sweets crafted by skilled artisans from Santa Cruz Acalpixca, an indigenous village in Xochimilco. Next, you’ll embark on a pulque tasting, where you’ll explore the myths and realities surrounding this ancient “nectar of the gods.”

The tour also includes a visit to an axolotl sanctuary, providing insights into the preservation efforts of this endangered species. You’ll then wander through a marigold nursery, learning about the symbolic importance of these vibrant flowers in Mexican culture. To top it all off, a memorable live concert aboard a trajinera featuring Elo Vit, dressed as the iconic Catrina, will entertain you with a blend of seasonal tunes and her original compositions.

• Date: October 14,15,21,22,28 and 29. November 1 and 2.
• Admission: adults MX$1,500 (approx US$67 ), children MX$1,200 (approx US$83 )

If you’re looking to experience the Day of the Dead in Mexico and are considering other Mexican cities check out my article about the best things to do for Day of the Dead in Mazatlán , where you can combine Dia de los Muertos events with a beach vacation!

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Mexico City: Day of the Dead Comfort

5 days | this cultural festival will have you spooked in all the right ways..

Feel the mystical vibes of the weird and wonderful Dia de los Muertos, or the annual Day of the Dead festival, on a five-day cultural exploration of Mexico City and surrounds. Visit the museums of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera and learn all about their fascination with death, wander about the Tlahuac community, participate in a traditional Day of the Dead ceremony and see elaborate altars dedicated to the deceased. This festival is all about rituals, so dive straight in to the spooky and sacrilegious ceremonies that has made this tradition so infamous. Oh, and Mexico City’s tacos will make you feel you’ve died and gone to heaven, too.

Trip overview

• Join a family in Tlahuac to create an altar (or ofrenda as it's sometimes called in Spanish) to remember your ancestors and join in their colourful cemetery ceremonies.
• Take a walking tour of Mexico City with your local leader, taking in the city’s most iconic sites – the Zocalo, Metropolitan Cathedral and Palacio de Bellas Artes.
• Get the low-down on all the traditions and rituals watching the incredible Day of the Dead parade then fiesta the night away in Mexico City and get into the true spirit of this haunting ceremonial festival.
• Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in the historic Coyoacan neighbourhood - you'll check out the works in her former home and discover her art often focused on the notion of death.
• This itinerary is designed to provide the best possible experience of the annual Day of the Dead festivities around Mexico City. As such, there is very limited free time to explore many of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, including the Museum of Anthropology, Teotihuacan and Chapultepec Park. We recommend you stay a few extra days before or after the tour to make the most of this vibrant metropolis. If you would like to spend more time in Mexico City, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
• We will be operating multiple departures of this tour so it possible that more than one group will be at some locations or activities at the same time. However, each group will have a maximum of 12 passengers with its own dedicated tour leader.

Bienvenidos a Mexico! Welcome to Mexico! Arrive at Mexico City’s Benito Juarez International Airport and be transferred to your hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Modern meets ancient in Mexico City – one of the world's largest urban centres. A bustling, busy place, Mexico City offers a great variety of impressive museums, galleries and architecture, along with exciting nightlife and delicious street food. If you arrive early, head to the Zocalo – the city's huge central square – to see Aztec ruins and colonial architecture or relax in one of the many parks, plazas and gardens. After your important meeting, why not head out and see this city in full swing – street tacos, anyone? You’ll already have noticed a mystical feeling in the air – keep an eye out for any Day of the Dead decorations you can spot around town.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Complimentary Arrival Transfer

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

The arrival transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through Intrepid. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.

You’ll wave goodbye to Mexico City this morning and head to San Pedro Tlahuac where Nahuatl descendants preserve traditions from Pre-Columbian times, including chinampa farming, fiestas and ceremonies from ancient days. Visit a local family, get acquainted with their traditional customs and join them to create an altar. Making an altar (or ofrenda as it's sometimes called in Spanish) during the Day of the Dead festivities can be a way to honour the life of someone who was important, or remember your ancestors. You can get as creative as you like when building the altar with the local family. As part of the Day of the Dead, people organise ceremonies at the cemetery for those not physically with them any longer and commemorate the lives of people passed over. You’ll visit the local cemetery and see how the families decorate the graves of their ancestors with the belief that when they return from the dead, their spirits will go to the cemetery first. Some even elaborately decorate paths to their homes with flower petals to lead the spirits back. It’s an eye opening, yet beautiful experience that you won’t soon forget. 

• Tlahuac - Cemetery visit
• Tlahuac - Day of the Dead altar creation
• Tlahuac - Day of the Dead parade

 Set out on a walking tour of Mexico City’s historic centre with your leader, walking past the Zocalo, Metropolitan Cathedral, Templo Mayor, Palacio de Bellas Artes and Frida Kahlo Museum. The Frida Kahlo Museum, located in the house she lived throughout her life, contains a collection of her work, as well as artefacts, photographs, and personal items. After your walking tour, you’ll also swing by Mercado San Juan, where you might want to buy yourself some lunch. The afternoon is then free to explore on your own, or perhaps take an optional trip to Xochimilco (approximately 28 km away) to visit the Doll's Island. In the evening, return to Mexico City to watch some street festivities and feel the deathly vibes of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

• Mexico City - City Tour
• Mexico City - Frida Kahlo Museum (entrance fee)

Today is a free day to explore the city on your own. Perhaps relax in Chapultepec Park or take in some of the city's notable museums. In the evening you could visit the famous Plaza Garibaldi or sip cocktails with your fellow travellers in one of the many trendy bars in the city, whatever takes your fancy.

Your immersion in Mexico's Day of the Dead festival ends after breakfast this morning. That doesn’t mean your Mexican adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to spend more time in Mexico City, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

4 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Private vehicle, Metro

Hotel (4 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Your adventure begins with at 6pm on Day 1 in Mexico City. There are no activities planned for the final day so you may depart at any time. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 4. We will be operating multiple departures of this tour so it is possible that more than one group will be at some locations or activities at the same time. However, each group will have a maximum of 12 passengers with its own dedicated tour leader. Please advise us of any travel companions that are not booked on the same file.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Day of the Dead in Oaxaca: Traditions & 2024 Trip Itinerary

Oaxaca, Mexico is a magical place – and it is most magical during the annual Day of the Dead celebrations! The Day of the Dead (or Dia de los Muertos) is a festival celebrated in Mexico on October 31, November 1 and November 2, 2024. During this time, locals believe that the veil between the world of the spirits and the living is lifted, so deceased loved ones can travel back for a visit.

Mexico City is home to the largest Dia de los Muertos celebrations, including the famous Mexico City Day of the Dead Parade . But Oaxaca has some of the most spiritual and unique Dia de los Muertos traditions. 

Guided tours for Day of the Dead in Oaxaca sell out each year, but it is possible to visit on your own.  You can also find organized day trips to communities preparing for the holiday, as well as tours for cemetery visits! I have a few to recommend for you.

Read on for my best tips on how to visit Oaxaca City for Day of the Dead: what to do, where to stay , and how to have an authentic Day of the Dead experience in Oaxaca!

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos: Quick Guide

Dates: The official dates of the holiday are October 31 – November 1, but preparations and celebrations begin days before and continue for a few days after.

Events schedule: The official events in Oaxaca for 2023 began on October 25 and continued through November 2. I’ll post an updated calendar as soon as one is available.

Guided group tours: Each year there are guided small group tours from G Adventures and Nat Geo as well as a Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido tour (ages 18-39) for Day of the Dead.

Day trips: Zapotec Travel organizes responsible Day of the Dead travel experiences with a rotation of 50 indigenous small businesses. Find information here later this year and contact them on Instagram .

Day trips: En Via is a nonprofit foundation that offers day trips to experience Day of the Dead traditions and customs in local communities. They also offer weekly community tours year round.

Day trips: Where Sidewalks End Oaxaca cemetery tours on Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 in 2023. Also check out their other immersive Oaxaca experiences .

Note: these are the only tours I can personally recommend, because I have followed and know these businesses. In Oaxaca, you will likely meet additional tour operators in person. In general, I don’t recommend booking Day of the Dead tours on Viator or Get Your Guide, since the tours only happen once a year and there are no reviews.

Hotels: Looking for where to stay for Day of the Dead? Check out my guide to where to stay in Oaxaca .

Save this Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos guide for for updates and tips during your trip!

Where is oaxaca.

Oaxaca City (pronounced “wah-HAH-kah” with the emphasis on the “HAH”) is the capital of the state of the same name, located in Southwestern Mexico.  The area is known for indigenous cultures including Zapotecs and Mixtecs, as well as historical sites at Monte Albán and Mitla. Plus, it has stunning beaches and world-class surfing along its Pacific coast. And, of course, its Day of the Dead celebrations!

Dia de Los Muertos Traditions

The first thing that anyone will tell you about the real meaning of this holiday is that Day of the Dead is not just “Mexican Halloween.” Dia de los Muertos is an example of pre-Hispanic cultural traditions and Christian holidays blending together:  Aztec death festivals combined with Catholic All Saints’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day.

During these days, locals believe that the gap between our world and the spiritual world opens, and they invite their loved ones back for a celebration.  This is done with ofrendas , or offerings, placed on altars in homes, schools, and cemeteries.

Altars usually have several tiers and are decorated with pictures of the deceased, sugar skulls, crosses, candles, papel picado , and flowers. Fruit, nuts, special pan de muertos bread and even beer are also offered – things the departed would have enjoyed in life.

Copal incense is burned to purify the air, and trails of yellow marigold and magenta cockscomb flowers help the dead find their way back from the spirit world. 

The dead are believed to consume the essence of the offerings, giving them strength after their journey. During the holiday, families take time to prepare for the holiday together.  Along with the returned spirits, they also celebrate as a family with food, music, and drinks. 

Dates of Oaxaca Day of the Dead Celebrations for 2024

While many cities stretch their celebrations into a week or longer, and all have different traditions, the main days of the festival are:

• October 31 is All Saints’ Eve, and it’s traditional to visit cemeteries and family graves.  The spirits of little children, angelitos, are believed to return this first night and spend the next day with their families.
• November 1 is All Saints’ Day, and is celebrated again at cemeteries, parades and other festivities.  Many believe that this is the night that adult spirits return.
• November 2 is All Souls’ Day, and generally a quieter day of celebrations. Many residents go to church and also visit cemeteries again.

Day of the Dead in Oaxaca 2024 Daily Event Schedule

For an idea of what to expect and to help you plan, see below for the full 2023 Day of the Dead in Oaxaca daily events calendar. (Click an image to open it and scroll the through gallery in full-view.) I’ll post the updated version as soon as it is available – usually a few weeks before the holiday.

Oaxaca Day of the Dead Traditions 

In Oaxaca, preparations start a week before the start of Dia de los Muertos (or, as you soon learn, what the locals refer to simply as  “Dia de Muertos” or just “Muertos”). Markets around the city begin offering all the supplies needed to prepare for the holiday.  Families shop at markets and return home to begin preparations and build their altars.

Altars in Oaxaca

Ropes of marigold flowers appear over many streets, and you’ll see local businesses setting up altars as well. Altars are one of the most important Oaxaca Day of the Dead traditions. They feature all the items common in other areas of Mexico, but add the mole that is central to Oaxacan cuisine, lots of marigolds (cempasuchil) and cockscomb flowers, chocolate, and local fruits.

Sand Tapestries

Oaxaca has a flourishing arts scene, which also plays an important part in celebrations. Artists create beautiful Day of the Dead sand tapestries known as tapetes de arena in front of many altars.

Colored sand is used to make detailed scenes of skeletons, saints, and more – and you’ll even find a sand tapestry contest!  My favorites were simpler tapestries created from rice, seeds, dried beans, and flowers.

Visiting Cemeteries

Throughout the days of Dia de los Muertos, another important tradition is visiting cemeteries (called a panteón or cementerio ). Here you’ll find families cleaning and decorating graves, then celebrating with food and music.

There will be daytime events throughout the city such as concerts, costume contests, and music and dance performances.

During the Day of the Dead celebration in Oaxaca, you’ll also see comparsas . These are traditional parades that symbolize return of the dead. The comparsas include costumed performers and marching bands that wind their ways around the streets of the city center.

You’ll see them on the pedestrian street (Calle Macedonio Alcalá) and through the zócalo .

Expect to see more on November 1, when the dead are believed to have returned, but you will also see them at the start of the festival. The cutest ones are the parades of kids in costumes!

Booking Your Trip for Dia de los Muertos

Day tours, hotels, and even flights book VERY EARLY to Oaxaca for the Dia de los Muertos celebrations each year!  I recommend booking as early as January for the best selection of hotels and flights. This includes flights from Oaxaca to beaches following the festival.

Staying in the city center will make it easier to get to the events – check my post on where to stay in Oaxaca for the best hotel recommendations.

For daytime Day of the Dead tours to neighboring communities that are preparing for the holiday, check out these options below.

Zapotec Travel Day Trips

En Via Day Trips

How to Get to Oaxaca City:

• Fly into Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), or take a bus from Mexico City (about six hours)
• You can book a shared shuttle to the city upon arrival, after exiting customs. Pay at the counter and take your receipt outside to the drivers. Or grab a taxi outside the airport.

Oaxaca City Hotels for Day of the Dead

When visiting Oaxaca for Day of the Dead, I recommend staying at hotels in the Oaxaca city center, so you’ll be within easy walking distance of all the events and celebrations. Again, book early, because many hotels sell out months in advance. Grab my best bets here !

2024 Oaxaca Day of the Dead Itinerary

Before the holiday: explore oaxaca.

Walk around the city. Visit the Cathedral (a block from the zócalo ) and pick up a festival schedule from the Oaxaca tourism booth there.  Stop in hotels and shops to see the altars, sand tapestries, and other decorations. 

Visit markets like Mercado Benito Juarez and 20 de Noviembre to try local foods and shop for souvenirs.

Here are some suggested activities to keep you busy leading up to the event; and key events of the festival for you to schedule around.

Be sure to read my guide to the best things to do in Oaxaca to help build the best itinerary for you.

October 27: Get to Know Oaxaca + Magna Comparsa

Head to the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman to see what’s happening in Oaxaca! You can visit the church with its ornate gilded interior, and look around the Jardin del Panuelito (small garden adjacent) where there is often an exhibition of altars and a festival stage.

While you’re there, you might want to visit the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca which adjoins the church.

Consider a food tour, cooking class, or walking tour to meet other travelers and to get to know the city.

This Oaxaca markets tour is the perfect intro to Oaxacan cuisine and street food!

If you’d like to try something active, set off on a bike tour to explore street art !

Late afternoon: Try to see the Magna Comparsa , the Grand Parade, which kicks off the celebrations. In 2023 it was scheduled to begin at 6PM at the Parque El Llano , continue down Calle de Manuel Garcia Vigil and end at 8PM at the Plaza de La Danza . You’ll see people lining up along the route – camp out for a good spot!

Since it’s your first night in Oaxaca, be sure to stop in one of the city’s bars for some mezcal! Try Mezcalería In Situ , or Sabina Sabe for cocktails. ( Pro tip: locals sip and savor mezcal – never throw it back as a shot!)

October 28: Full Day Outing

There usually aren’t any big festival events scheduled today, so it’s a great opportunity for a full day outing! Book a day trip with Zapotec Travel or check out my recommendations below.

Hierve El Agua: See the beauty of its pools and calcified “waterfalls,” plus a hike, waterfall swim, and visit to a a family-owned mezcal distillery.

Paths of Mezcal: Visit the ruins of Mitla, meet Zapotec weavers in Teotitlán del Valle, and learn from producers of artisanal mezcal.

Ultimate Day Trip: Check off many of the region’s top sights with this tour to Mitla, Teotitlan del Valle, El Tule, and a mezcal distillery in one day!

October 29: Half Day Trip + Local Eats

This is another day when festival events are light, so a half-day outing to nearby Monte Alban fits nicely into the schedule.

Monte Alban: Half-day tour to see the nearby ruins with transportation and a guide.

Altars: Stop in to local shops, restaurants, and hotels throughout the city to see their ofrendas, or altars with offerings.

Explore more of Oaxaca’s food and mezcal scene in the evening.

October 30: City Sights

Discover more of the city with a visit to the Ethnobotanical Garden . English tours meet Mon-Sat at 11AM, while there are many more options of tours in Spanish.

Grab lunch and hit some of Oaxaca’s museums, like the Museum of Cultures, the Textile Museum, or MACO (contemporary art).

For dinner, gnosh around town on a street food tour .

October 31: Sand Tapestries + Cemetery Visits

Get ready for cemetery visits tonight! Take it easy with some light sightseeing around town or a half day outing.

Tapetes de Arena: Try to see the start of the sand tapestry competition! Keep an eye on the festival schedule to see the time and location.

At night, visit Cemeteries in Xoxocotlan, San Felipe or Atzompa. Near the zócalo you’ll also see comparsas in the evening with giant puppets ( mojigangas ) and fireworks.

The cemetery Xoxocotlan (known locally as Xoxo – pronounced “ho-ho”) is crowded and crazy, but not to be missed. 

You’ll find tour operators in the zócalo offering bus tours, but based on experience, I don’t recommend this.  So many people try to get to Xoxo at the same time, it creates a huge traffic jam from the city all the way to the cemetery.  It’s even more difficult to get through in a bus.

Instead, book a tour with WSE Tours ahead of time, find a reputable local tour company, or even use local transport.

Cemetery visit to Xoxocotlan with WSE tours

I recommend taking a taxi or colectivo (shared van) to Xoxo, unless you can find a small group tour.  It’s only about 6 miles (10 km) from Oaxaca City to Xoxo. There are actually two cemeteries here, about 6 blocks apart, and the larger one has the bigger celebration.

All continue until very late, so you can even arrive around 10-11pm and have plenty of time to take in the experience.

Pro tip: You’ll encounter cute kiddos in costume at cemeteries and comparsas! It’s nice to offer pesos if they are “trick or treating” rather than candy (although candy might be welcome!). I also often travel with small sheets of stickers since they’re easy to carry.

November 1: See Comparsas and Visit the Panteon General or San Agustin Etla

During the day and early evening, spend more time exploring the city, keep an eye out for comparsas , and visit the Panteon General de San Miguel. Near the Cathedral, there are usually children’s parades on November 1.

Tapetes de arena and altars: Don’t forget to keep an eye out for sand tapestries and altars as you wander the town! You won’t want to miss the finished tapetes from the competition.

At night, plan another cemetery visit to the Panteon General.

Cemetery visit to Panteon General with WSE tours

Or, if you’re really brave, head out to the nearby town of San Agustin Etla, Oaxaca (about a half hour from Oaxaca City by taxi) for the wildest Dia de los Muertos festivities.  

The Day of the Dead celebration in San Augustín Etla is like no other! Nearby communities prepare for months with marching bands and wild costumes, and on November 1, they march through the streets of the town all night.

These comparsas (known as muerteadas ) begin at one home, where the musicians and characters are offered food and drinks while they wait for the dead to join them.  Later they converge in streets and schoolyard for  “Bring It On”-style battles. 

I found a small tour group to take me to Etla which, unfortunately, I can’t recommend as it seems to have closed. Our group (all women – three Americans, three Japanese, and one German) were the only “obvious” tourists we saw all night.  But the locals seemed thrilled to have us there! 

If you can find a tour to take you, it’s something you can only experience in Oaxaca. If not, and you speak Spanish, you can make friends there easily by taking along a bottle of mezcal and some small half-gourd cups. 

But be careful – it’s definitely a wild night, and it could be difficult to catch a taxi back to Oaxaca. (Particularly with a taxi driver who has not been participating too heavily in the festivities!)

Comparsas: If you stay in town, there should be more nighttime comparsas. Check the festival schedule (in 2023 it was in Jalatlaco).

November 2: Comparsas, City and Zócalo

Some shops and restaurants might be closed this day, so that people can enjoy the day with their families.  This was the most low-key day of the three, but after two late nights in a row, it was fine with me!

Visit the Panteon General for daytime cemetery celebrations if you haven’t yet experienced this.

Check out the Palacio de Gobierno: they usually have displays of altars from different villages around Oaxaca state.  Then head to the zocalo for the last of the comparsas .  I met a lot of kids “trick-or-treating” and gave out pesos since I didn’t have any candy!

Events continue for a few more days, and there are plenty of day trips in the area to get the most out of your Oaxaca experience.

How to Dress for Day of the Dead

As I mentioned earlier, Day of the Dead is not Halloween, so you shouldn’t show up in a Halloween-type costume. Scary, gory, or “sexy” costumes will look disrespectful and tone-deaf. Even a Day of the Dead costume from Party City is going to mark you as a tourist.

Just say no to anything sold in a bag!

What to Wear for Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

Women often wear flowy black or flowered dresses, or traditional Mexican embroidered dresses you can buy at the markets in Oaxaca. It’s common for people to get their faces painted for the festivities in Oaxaca City, but not for visiting cemeteries (it could be seen as disrespectful).

If you visit any of the local communities, please don’t wear costumes or face paint. Within the city, the holiday takes on a festival atmosphere; but in local communities, it is very much a spiritual and meaningful holiday.

Performers in the comparsas usually wear Victorian dress: lacy or ruffled gowns for women, old-fashioned suits or vests with a bow tie or lace cravat for men. Women often wear a flower crown like these that you can order online , and I loved seeing men in top hats!

I saw both men and women wearing black pants or jeans with leather jackets.

Sugar Skull Face Paint / Make-Up

Although there’s a lot of discussion on whether it’s cultural appropriation to wear “sugar skull” style make-up for Halloween , you will see artists throughout the city offering face paint for Día de los Muertos in Oaxaca. If you’re participating in the festival and making an effort to understand its traditions, no one in Oaxaca will question you joining in.

Look for artists offering maquillaje (make-up) in the zócalo , at beauty shops, or even hotels. They’ll have sample photos to choose from, or you can bring one along for inspiration.

Pro tip: Be sure to pack face wipes to remove your makeup, and wear a loose or button-down shirt for the application if you’ll change your clothes later (so you don’t mess up the artwork!).

One note: please don’t wear facepaint to a cemetery in the daytime or visit to a community outside Oaxaca. Save it for walking around the city or visiting San Augustin Etla, where wild costumes are the order of the day!

If you want a fresh flower headband, look for the flower market in the street behind the Mercado Benito Juarez on Calle Aldama. I searched all over and finally found sellers making them here for less than $5 with marigolds and cockscombs.

Read next ⫸ How to Celebrate Day of the Dead in Guanajuato Mexico

Other dia de los muertos “do’s and don’ts”.

Just some more tips from me on being a good guest for this amazing cultural experience!

• Spend time wandering the city
• Look for altars and decorations in hotels, shops and public spaces
• Check out the local food and art scenes
• Get your face painted (but not for community visits)
• Talk to locals about their ofrendas and the loved ones they’re remembering
• Get permission before photographing people, especially in cemeteries
• Give pesos to performers. In the comparsas , one performer will often have a collection can for donations to a group or charity. Or you’ll encounter talented musicians throughout the city. Especially if you take photos or video, you should donate!
• Treat the celebration like Halloween or a trip to Las Vegas.  It’s meant to celebrate and commune with family, not a holiday designed for tourists.
• Touch anything on altars or eat any of the food
• Step on graves or disturb them
• Take flash photos at cemeteries
• Take photos of people without permission, unless it’s a public performance (and even then, please don’t be a jerk)

Oaxaca Day of the Dead Experience

Oaxaca’s art, museums, unique cuisine, and friendly people make it a great destination year-round. But visiting during Day of the Dead is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The celebratory atmosphere of the city during Day of the Dead, coupled with the ambiance of candle-lit cemeteries, stays with you long after you depart. 

Now anytime I smell marigolds, I’m immediately transported back.  I hope you get to experience magical Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca too!

Quick Tips on Where to Eat in Oaxaca

• Origén – the best meal (of many great meals) during my entire trip
• Cabuche – for a traditional Oaxacan soup called pozole
• Los Danzantes – one of the best rated restaurants in Oaxaca
• Casa Taviche – local favorite with personal service

Extend your trip!

Don’t miss my guides to all the top sights of Oaxaca City and its Pacific coast beaches.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca City: Best Oaxaca Hotels, Airbnbs & Hostels

Things To Do In Oaxaca City, Mexico: Top Sights & Cultural Tours

14 Best Oaxaca Beaches QUIZ: Find Your Perfect Oaxaca Beach!

Huatulco Oaxaca Mexico: Beaches, Hotels + Ultimate Travel Guide

Puerto Escondido Oaxaca Mexico | Best Beaches, Hotels & Things to Do

Playa Zipolite, Oaxaca: Mexico’s Hippie Beach Escape

Playa Mazunte, Oaxaca: Mexico Yoga & Eco-Tourism Beach Gem

More oaxaca and day of the dead resources:.

• Que Pasa Oaxaca: a local arts, culture and events site
• Other must-see Dia de los Muertos celebrations in Mexico

Pin this Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos Guide for later or share with friends!

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

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Oaxaca Day of the Dead: 2024 Schedule + Events

• by Nellie Huang

Celebrating Day of the Dead in Oaxaca was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for us! Here’s my detailed guide and a schedule of Dia de los Muertos Oaxaca events.

Dia de los Muertos , Day of the Dead , is undoubtedly one of the best times of the year to visit Mexico. The iconic Mexican holiday is a vibrant celebration of death throughout Mexico — and Oaxaca is lauded as the best place to celebrate it .

Marigold garlands light up the city, elaborate ofrendas (offerings) adorn the shops, and comparsas (parades) take over the streets. In the evening, families gather at the local cemeteries for all-night vigils, chating and eating in their ancestors’ memories.

Mexico City may have the biggest and grandest  Dia de los Muertos celebrations in Mexico — but Oaxaca (pronounced ‘wa-ha-kah’) has the most deeply-rooted traditions and time-honored rituals. We loved celebrating Day of the Dead in Mexico City , but we found the Oaxaca celebrations more authentic and spiritual. Here, I’m sharing details on how to plan a trip to Oaxaca at Dia de los Muertos, and what events take place when.

Table of Contents

What is Dia de los Muertos?

How is dia de los muertos celebrated, why celebrate dia de muertos in oaxaca, when is oaxaca dia de los muertos, how to get to oaxaca.

• Do You Need to Book a Day of the Dead Tour?

Mexico Travel Requirements

Where to stay in oaxaca day of the dead, how to get around oaxaca, is it safe to visit oaxaca for day of the dead, how to dress for dia de muertos oaxaca, where to get face painted in oaxaca, oaxaca dia de los muertos traditions , 26 oct:  visit the cempasúchil fields, 29 oct: magna comparsa.

• 28 Oct-2 Nov:  Megaorfrenda At Zócalo

28 Oct-2 Nov: Sand Tapestries

27 oct – 2 nov: jalatlaco festival, 27 oct – 2 nov: xochimilco festival, 28 oct – 5 nov: mitla festival, 29 oct – 2 nov: visit zaachila, 1 nov: visit san agustin etla, 1 & 2 nov: visit cemeteries, things to know about cemetery visits, how to stay connected in oaxaca, where to eat in oaxaca, best restaurants in oaxaca, best rooftop views in oaxaca, extending your stay in oaxaca, final tips for oaxaca day of the dead, enjoy day of the dead in oaxaca, oaxaca day of the dead 2024.

First of all, let’s understand the history behind Dia de los Muertos. The roots of the Day of the Dead go back some 3,000 years, to the rituals honoring the dead in pre-hispanic Mesoamerica. The Aztecs held a cyclical view of the universe, and saw death as an integral, ever-present part of life.

Over the centuries, the Mexican holiday became more intertwined with Catholic traditions and shortened from a month-long event to a celebration that’s held in Mexico on November 1 (All Saints’ Day) and November 2 (All Souls’ Day) . It’s definitely not the “Mexican Halloween.”  

The holiday was even added to  UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage  as “a defining aspect of Mexican culture.” Dia de los Muertos is a part of who the Mexicans are, and remains a part of their tradition for as long as there are Mexicans.

Traditionally, Dia de los Muertos has always been a family affair . Families erect  ofrenda s (altar offerings) to honor their deceased family members. They then decorate the altar with bright orange marigolds, painted skulls, flickering candles, bottles of tequila and colorful paper cutouts. Every single item holds a meaning (read this guide to Day of the Dead symbols to learn more).

The Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico have evolved over time — newer Dia de los Muertos celebrations such as street parades and parties have shifted the atmosphere of the holiday away from something quiet. At any time of the day, you’ll find parades and marching bands blaring their trumpets and guitars all over Oaxaca. At night, sparkling fireworks summon bystanders to join the party. 

Despite the raucous parties and street parades, Day of the Dead in Oaxaca is still very much centered on the family. The holiday’s traditions are alive within their homes, with families gathering together to honor and celebrate their loved ones over music, food and drinks. 

A bastion of indigenous culture, culturally-rich Oaxaca City (pronounced “wa-HA-ka”) is home to Mexico’s most colorful traditions , most vibrant art scene, and a unique cuisine unlike that of anywhere else in the country. It’s one of the best places to celebrate Day of the Dead , as its celebrations are more spiritual, intimate and deeply-rooted in traditions.

In recent years, more and more travelers are flocking to join Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations. Sadly, this also means that airfares and hotel prices are higher than ever, and accommodations get fully booked months in advance. You’ll also need to prepare for the overwhelming amount of tourists wherever you go.

We have also celebrated Day of the Dead in Mexico City and had an equally amazing time! Everything is bigger in Mexico City in terms of the scale of parades, ofrendas and cemetery gatherings. In comparison with Oaxaca, there are more celebrations in every corner, but they are also less traditional and more carnival-like.

*Oaxaca is a popular place to visit for Dia de Muertos. I would recommend booking your flights and accommodation as early as April or May. [Check out my 10-day Oaxaca itinerary .]

Oaxaca Day of the Dead can be a week-long affair. I suggest arriving around 26 October and staying till 2 November. That way, you’ll have enough time to see all of Oaxaca attractions, join in the events and do some day trips from Oaxaca.

The highlight of the festivities in Oaxaca is undoubtedly the Magna Comparsa , the biggest parade that takes place through the historic center. Last year, it was held on  29 October 2023 at 5pm . Definitely come early, so you don’t miss that.  Skip to the events schedule. 

Throughout the week, there will be non-stop events happening all over Oaxaca, from parades to street parties, outdoor markets, display of mega ofrendas, and food festivals. Scroll down to see the detailed schedule of events.

The main days of the festival are:

• October 31 — All Saints’ Eve; it’s traditional to visit cemeteries and family graves.  The spirits of little children,  angelitos,  are believed to return this first night and spend the next day with their families.
• November 1 — All Saints’ Day, celebrated again at cemeteries, parades and other festivities.  Many believe that this is the night that adult spirits return.
• November 2 — All Souls’ Day, generally a quieter day of celebrations, but again people visit cemeteries.

The most convenient way to get to Oaxaca is by flying into the Oaxaca International Airport (OAX), located just outside of the city. The small airport serves mainly domestic destinations (Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey), but also has flights from Los Angeles, Houston and Dallas.

Flights to Oaxaca are using higher than normal during Day of the Dead due to the higher demand. Direct flights from Los Angeles to Oaxaca  cost around US$300-400 return.  Flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca  cost only $50 return(1hour). Budget travelers can also just take a bus from the Terminal de Autobuses del Sur in Mexico City to Oaxaca; it takes 6-7 hours depending on traffic.  Pre-book your bus tickets here .

The fastest way to get from the airport to the city is to book a transfer . You can also take the  colectivo  (small, shared van) for $3-5 right outside Oaxaca Airport. Once there, pick up a brochure with the festival schedule at a tourist booth (there will be booths all over town, the most obvious one is in front of the Santo Domingo Church).

Do You Need to Book a Day of the Dead Tour ?

Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations can be fun and lively, but also hectic and intense. If you don’t do well with crowds or you’re not a confident traveler, your best bet is to book a group tour. They will take care of the logistics and the local guide can give you a great overview of Dia de Muertos traditions.

We didn’t book a tour, and we went to all the events and cemeteries mentioned in this article ourselves. It easy to drive or take a taxi. But for solo travelers who don’t speak Spanish, it might be wise (and more fun!) to join a group.

• 28Oct – 3Nov:   Dead of the Dead Tour by G Adventures  — For a full experience, join this Dia de los Muertos Oaxaca tour for 7 days and experience all the events I mentioned above with a guide and small group.
• 31 Oct or 1 Nov:   Day of the Dead Tour in Oaxaca  — Prefer just a day tour? This daytrip lets you join in a family celebration and brings you to the town of San Agustin Etla.
• 31 Oct or 1 Nov:   Day of the Dead Tour in Oaxaca — This tour brings you to Jalatlaco and three different cemeteries, including the famous one in Xoxocotlan.

• Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.
• However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.
• Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

Oaxaca’s Centro Histórico (historic center) is a convenient location to stay, as most attractions, events and the parade take place here. But hotels get fully booked fast so reserve early! Jalatlaco and Xochimilco, two of the oldest districts just outside of the historic center, are also great areas to stay and there’ll be lots of festivities there too.

Luxury: Parador San Miguel Oaxaca

This historic hotel, housed in a restored 16th-century mansion, is a true icon of Oaxaca City. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with antique furnishings and traditional artwork. The hotel also boasts a beautiful courtyard and rooftop terrace.  Check rates here.

Luxury: Hacienda Los Laureles

Located just outside of the city, Hacienda Los Laureles is a peaceful oasis surrounded by lush gardens and fruit trees. Cool whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and wrought-iron furniture lend a rustic authenticity.  Check rates here.

Mid Range: Hotel Azul de Oaxaca

We stayed at this beautiful boutique hotel with a central but quiet location. The stylish and modern hotel with a focus on sustainability and local art. The rooms are bright and colorful, and the hotel’s restaurant is known for its innovative takes on traditional Oaxacan cuisine.  Check rates.

Mid Range: Hotel Casa Antigua

Just 2 blocks from the central Zócalo Square, Hotel Casa Antigua is a restored 19th-century house with a traditional central courtyard. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant serves delicious breakfasts and dinners using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Most things to do in Oaxaca are steps from this hotel.  Check rates here.

Budget: Paulina Youth Hostel

A great budget option for travelers looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay in Oaxaca. Located in the heart of the historic center, the hostel offers private rooms and dorms at very affordable rates.  Check rates.

Oaxaca gets crowded during the Day of the Dead, so expect crazy traffic in many parts of the city! If you’re staying in Oaxaca’s historic center, you can get around mostly on foot. Many Oaxaca attractions are within walking distance of each other. 

I recommend hiring a car only if you intend to do a  Oaxaca road trip  and explore the coast. Once outside of the city, it’s relatively easy to drive. We rented a car for our entire  10 days in Oaxaca , but hardly used it in the city as we walked everywhere. An  economy rental car in Oaxaca  costs around $100 for a whole week, which is  less than $20 a day . 

For day trips, we usually took our rental car and we had no issues. If you’re not driving, a taxi ride doesn’t usually cost more than $10.

Oaxaca is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. According to Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography, the state of Oaxaca had a homicide rate of 8.6 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022, lower than the national average. The state government also reports that the number of homicides decreased by 33% from 2021 to 2022. 

My husband, daughter and I all felt super safe in Oaxaca and had no security issues at all.  Yes it was crowded everywhere in the city throughout Day of the Dead; but we kept our belongings close to us, brought minimal cash with us, and had no problems. Of course, we avoided seedy areas, and we weren’t hanging out late at night or getting drunk on the streets.

All in all, stick to the tourist areas and you’ll be fine (that means centro historico, Jalatlaco, and Xochimilco).

Everywhere you go in Oaxaca during the Day of the Dead, you’ll see people dressed like La Catrina , an iconic character made famous by artist Jose Guadalupe Posada to bring elegance and a sense of aristocracy to the celebration. These days, the classy skeleton lady has become the symbol of Dia de los Muertos .

As mentioned, Dia de los Muertos is not the Mexican Halloween — please leave your sexy nurse or superhero costumes at home! Most people wear black dresses or simple Mexican embroidered floral dresses. You can find them at Mercado Benito Juarez for cheap. I got my black off-shoulder Mexican top for just $5 and my daughter’s dress for $15.

Keep in mind that Oaxaca gets chilly in the evenings at this time of the year. It will be dry, warm during the day, but the temperature drops once the sun sets. So pack jeans and a sweater or light jacket for night time.

Many people will get their faces painted to resemble la Catrina , one of the symbols of Dia de los Muertos . I checked with many locals, and they confirmed that it’s not rude/disrespectful to wear facepainting in the cemeteries either.

There are tons of makeup artists with temporary stands everywhere.  A face paint costs around 100 – 150 MXN ($5-7.5) and takes 10-20 minutes.  We got our faces painted in front of Templo Santo Domingo and another time at the Panteon Xoxo. They usually have a book of designs to choose from, or you can show them what you want on your phone.

To complete the look, you can also get flower crown headbands from these street vendors. Most are inexpensive, at around 100-200 MXN ($5-10).

To get you acquainted with Dia de los Muertos terminology, here’s a list of traditions that are commonly practiced during this holiday.

• Calaveras  — Skulls are ubiquitous during Day of the Dead. The skulls are often drawn with a smile as to laugh at death itself. 
• La Catrina   — An emblematic character that represents Dia de Muertos. She’s a classy skeletal lady created by Jose Guadalupe Posada in order to bring elegance and a sense of aristocracy to the celebration. 
• Alebrijes   — Brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical (fantasy/mythical) creatures. In Mexico, they’re considered the creatures from the realm of the dead.
• Ofrendas  — Altar offerings that every family in Mexico sets up in their home for the dead. The altar usually includes photos of deceased family members, their favorite food, candles, copal and marigold flowers.
• Sugar Skulls  — The quintessential Day of the Dead treat. This water and sugar based treat represents the merging of Pre Hispanic culture with the Spanish custom of molding.
• Pan de Muertos  — Another traditional Dia de Muertos treat, this is a sweetened soft bun decorated with bone-shaped phalanges pieces. The bones represent the deceased, and they’re represented in a circle to portray the circle of life.
• Cempasuchil  — Iconic orange marigold flowers that adorn every altar on the Day of Dead. Their petals are laid out as walkways for the dead to find their way on earth so they may be reunited with their loved ones.
• Papel Picado  — A colorful string of flags that lights up a room or a whole street. It’s made up of fine color paper cuttings, showing images associated with the Day of the Dead.

Oaxaca Day of the Dead Events

There are so many Oaxaca Day of the Dead events that you’ll need to spend at least 1 week in Oaxaca City to experience them all. We spent 10 days in Oaxaca and the coast and still wished we had more time!

Try to arrive in Oaxaca as early as 26 October , as you’ll get to see preparations for the holidays underway. In 2022, the biggest event, Magna Comparsa, took place on 27 October! I recommend staying until 2 November.

There are tourist booths all over town with brochures of the event schedules (the most obvious one is in front of Santo Domingo). Also, check out this Oaxaca events site and join this Oaxaca Day of the Dead Facebook group to find info on the latest events. *Event announcements are usually made in October. Check back often for latest updates.

Before the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations officially begin, head out to the gorgeous cempasúchil (marigold) fields surrounding Oaxaca to see them at full bloom.  They are usually planted in June/July and the flowers bloom only in October/November.

These iconic flowers are the representation of Dia de Muertos and can be seen on every altar. Also called “ flor de Muerto ” (Spanish for flower of the dead), cempasúchil symbolizes the beauty and fragility of life. Prized for their bright coloring and potent fragrance, marigolds are thought to attract the souls of the dead to the ofrendas prepared for them.

We visited the Cultivos del Viejo farm in Zimatlán del Alvarez, a 45-minute drive from Oaxaca centro. The plantation accepts donations if you’d to come in and walk in the fields (just be respectful). You can also see the unique cresta de gallo (crested cock’s-comb) with its red velvety flowers and edible leaves.

When : 9am to 2pm

Where : Cultivos del Viejo, Zimatlán del Alvarez

Cost : A small donation of 20-50 pesos

During Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, you’ll find plenty of comparsas throughout the historic center. A comparsa is a small parade with people dressed in costumes, performers dancing, and bands marching through the streets. These parades symbolizing the return of the dead. They begin at one home and they wait for the dead to join them, and later converge in streets.

The biggest comparsa of all is the Magna Comparsa (meaning ‘Grand Parade’). It’s the main event in downtown Oaxaca and it’s the first official parade to open the Day of the Dead holiday. Last year, it took place on 27th Oct 5pm in the historic center.

Where :  Parque Llano -> Avenida Juárez -> Humboldt -> Plaza de la Danza

Cost:  Free

28 Oct-2 Nov:   Megaorfrenda At Zócalo

28th Oct kick starts the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations at the Zocalo (main square). Here’s where you’ll find the biggest ofrenda in Oaxaca, as well as concerts, food markets and exhibitions. Also at the Zocalo are sculptures of alebrijes animals and La Catrina on display. Check out the program here .

When : 12pm to 8pm

Where : Zócalo

Cost : Free

Plaza de la Danza is another major square in Oaxaca City where massive tapetes de arena (sand carpets) are on display. At the end of the Day of the Dead celebrations, judges will decide which sand carpet is the winner of the competition. The Magna Comparsa ends here at Plaza de la Danza, making it an important spot for the Oaxaca Day of the Dead festivities.

When : 9am to 6pm

Where : Plaza de la Danza

Each neighborhood will have its own Dia de Muertos program and events too. You’ll find lots of activities in the bohemian borough of Jalatlaco (to the east of the historic center), which is now the hippest part of town. Murals are painted with Dia de Muertos theme, colorful papel picados (flags) hang overhead, while comparsas take over the streets. Most events take place around Jalatlaco is at Templo de San Matías.

When : 5pm to late

Where : Templo de San Matías Jalatlaco

To the north of the historic center (across the highway)in Xochimilco,  the oldest neighborhood in Oaxaca , there are also plenty of events. Throughout the week, you’ll find markets selling pan de muertos , altar competitions, bike parades and even kids-themed parades.

Here are some events in Xochimilco:

• 28 Oct 6pm: First family-themed comparsa
• 29 Oct 7pm: Bike parade “The dead roam on bicycles”
• 29 Oct 8pm: A Catrina theater show at the Templo de San Tomás Xochimilco
• 31 Oct 5pm: Festival of Terror
• 31 Oct 7pm: Cemetery vigil at the Panteon Xochimilco
• 1 Nov 430pm: A kids comparsa (our daughter loved it!)

If you’re taking a day trip to Hierve el Agua , be sure to drop by the town of Mitla . It’s mostly famous for the archaeological site characterized by intricate geometric patterns and designs carved into the stone walls.

But Mitla is also one of the most popular places to visit in Oaxaca at Day of the Dead as its name is derived from the Nahuatl word,  Mictlán  which means “ place of the dead ,”. It was considered the place where souls go to rest in the afterlife.

Right outside the archaeological site is a big market where handmade crafts and textiles are on sale. This is where most of the major events in Mitla take place. Here are some highlights:

• 28 Oct 11am: Sand tapestry display
• 30 Oct 7am: “Ruta de los Muertos” half-marathon
• 31 Oct 8pm: Dance performance at the Casa de la Cultura
• 1 Nov: Visiting the cemetery of Mitla
• 3 Nov 5pm: Traditional comparsa through the city’s main streets

The villages in the Central Valleys of Oaxaca have a long history of celebrating the dead with   colorful tapetes de arena. They represent a path for the spirits to find their way from the cemetery back to their family’s home. Depending on the town, they are created nine days, forty days, and one year after the death of a loved one. 

The most famous ones are found in Zaachila, along Calle Coquiza  which leads from the cemetery to the church. It’s a spectacular sight as the whole road is closed and the sand tapestry spreads the entire length of the road. But the sand tapestry here is created only a day or two before the Day of the Dead, so try to come only on 1 or 2 Nov.

At night, head out to the town of San Agustin Etla, about a half hour from Oaxaca City by taxi, for the craziest Dia de los Muertos festivities. Join this group tour if you prefer to have company. The Day of the Dead celebration in San Augustín Etla is like no other!

On November 1, the indigenous communities in Etla march through the streets of the town all night with drums and trumpets. These comparsas (known as  muerteadas ) begin at one home, where the musicians and characters are offered food and drinks while they wait for the dead to join them. 

Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations culminate at the cemetery. On the last two days of the Dia de Muertos, you’ll find the cemeteries at their most festive as families gather to celebrate the dead. They’ll often decorate the panteon (cemetery) with marigold flowers, candles, and food — sometimes they play music, enjoy food and drinks here all through the night.

The Panteon General is an easily accessible one from the center, but the most famous cemetery at Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca is in Santa Cruz Xococotlán . Panteon Xoxo (15 minutes away) has vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations and it gets packed with families throughout the holiday. If you’d rather join a group, this night tour will bring you there and allow you to join the celebrations in a respectful manner.

In 2022, there was an all-night vigil at Panteon Xoxo, with a fairground and huge stage set up outside and performances taking place from 8pm onwards. It was such a surreal experience wandering the cemetery amidst the candlelight, basking in the spiritual yet lively atmosphere. Amidst the flickering candles and burning incense, families played music, ate food and drank in memory of their loved ones.

To prevent overcrowding, the cemeteries in Oaxaca are opened at different times. Some will be opened for limited time only or have limited capacity. Last year, these were the opening times of the cemeteries in Oaxaca:

• Panteon General: 7am to 8pm
• Panteon Xoxocotlan: 7am to 12am
• Barrio de Xochimilco: 7am to 11pm
• Panteon Jardin: 7am to 6pm
• Panteon Marquesado: 7am to 6pm
• Panteon San Miguel: Closed for tourism

It’s important to remember that you’re at a burial site. Even though the atmosphere in the cemeteries is lively and festive, remember to be respectful. Don’t touch any of the graves or displays, and don’t sit on them.

Internet in Oaxaca is pretty decent, and you can get WiFi in most hotels and guesthouses. To get internet on the go, I recommend getting an eSIM before traveling. With a  Mexico eSIM  (digital SIM card), you can toss out your physical cards and simply activate it on your phone through an app! I have bought many  eSIMs on Airalo  and they have all worked perfectly. Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store.  Check out  Airalo’s Mexican eSIMs . 

You can also get a SIM card at the airport upon arrival or at any OXXO shop in Mexico. A SIM card itself costs between 29 and 149 pesos (around $1-6 USD). You can get 3GB of data valid for 30 days on the  sin limite  plan (unlimited) for 200 pesos (~8 USD.) That will also give you unlimited calls, texts, and most social media within North America.

Read my guide on  how to get a SIM card in Mexico .

Oaxaca’s biggest appeal is its food. Oaxacan food is known for being unique and completely distinctive from other Mexican cuisine. The largest markets in Oaxaca City are   Mercado de Benito Juárez  and  Mercado 20 de Noviembre  just to the south of the historic center (the two almost merge together) and both offer senses-assaulting experiences. 

Benito Juárez has almost anything you could ever need – from artisan goods to electronic accessories – but I recommend Mercado 20 de Noviembre for their taco stands and bakeries. This is the best place to buy some  pan de muerto  (skull-shaped bread pictured below) and get a traditional Mexican breakfast .

Meat lovers should head straight to the  Pasillo de Humo  (Smoke Alley) at the eastern entrance of Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Stall after stall of meat vendors serve up succulent meat, grills blazing and smoke billowing out. The most common meats here are  tasajo  (thinly sliced beef) , arrachera  (steak),  costilla  (pork ribs) and  chorizo  (spicy sausage). They’re all good and portions are huge!

TIP: It’s worth noting that Mercado 20 de Noviembre can be crowded and overwhelming. If you’re nervous,  join a food tour  with a local guide or  a cooking class that includes a market tour!

Oaxaca is a culinary powerhouse, and you can have an equally amazing experience eating at a street-side stand as you would at a fine dining establishment. But the best restaurants in Oaxaca get booked up quickly during Dia de los Muertos, so make sure to reserve a table in advance.

Tlayudas Libres Doña Martha

One of the  best things to do in Oaxaca  is eating street food. This streetside stand on Calle de los Libres has a loyal following. Their tlayudas sizzle with pork lard and drip with the perfect combination of melted Oaxacan cheese and grilled meat.   Find its location here.

Itanoní   Flor del Maiz

One of the best places in Oaxaca for a rustic and genuine culinary experience. The setup is humble with women cooking over the comal (flat metal pan), and serving up memelas made with heirloom-corn tortillas, rich pozole and a three-chile mole.  Read reviews.

Los Danzantes  

With locations in Oaxaca City and nearby San Agustin Etla, Los Danzantes is a popular restaurant and mezcal distillery that serves contemporary Mexican dishes with unique Oaxacan flavors. Its gorgeous setting right next to Templo de Santo Domingo makes it a hot favorite.  Book your table here.

Ancestral Cocina Tradicional 

This restaurant in Xochimilco serves reinvented Oaxacan dishes, prepared with locally grown produce and ingredients in a beautiful setting. In 2021 and again in 2022, the restaurant was recognized by the the Mexico Gastronomic Guide of Culinary Mexicana as one of the 250 top and best restaurants in Mexico.  Book our table.

Las Quince Letras

Las Quince Letras  is one of our favorite places to eat at in Oaxaca for the traditional menu and surprisingly good prices. The proudly Oaxacan restaurant is famous for its seven moles. You can even try 2/3 moles at once with their duo/triologia de moles.

If crowded places scare you, head up to the rooftop bars in Oaxaca’s historic center for some respite (and great views!). These rooftop restaurants get fully booked for Dia de Muertos, so be sure to call and reserve a table months in advance.

Most rooftop bars are concentrated along  Calle de Ignacio Allende , where you can take in sweeping views of the Templo de Santo Domingo and the comparsas happening on the streets.

• Praga Oaxaca  — A small but stylish rooftop bar with sexy cocktails and a  botaca oaxaqueña  (snack platter) worth trying!
• Terraza los Amantes — This next-door rooftop bar is bigger and more stylish, and also more expensive.
• Gozobi  — This colorful and eclectic restaurant has a huge rooftop and well-priced contemporary Mexican menu. We had dinner here on our last night and loved the grilled octopus in black squid ink and seafood risotto.
• Mezcalerita  — A famous mezcal bar with a rooftop terrace that’s got more of a convivial party atmosphere than a formal dining one.

It’ll be a waste to come to Oaxaca and not travel around the state! The southern Mexican state is so diverse that you can drive from one end to another, and feel like you’ve traveled across continents. If you have the time, I highly recommend extending your trip to explore the Oaxacan coast and Sierra Madre del Sur mountains.

On our  Oaxaca road trip , we spent 5 days in Oaxaca city and 5 days traveling around the state. We arrived a few days before Dia de Muertos and did day trips to  Hierve el Agua  and  the Monte Alban pyramids . After the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations ended, we drove out to San Jose del Pacifico for a day in the woods and eventually traversed the  Oaxacan coast all the way to Puerto Escondido .

Check out our  10-day Oaxaca itinerary . The road trip gave us an opportunity to pack in a good mixture of culture, nature and adventure into one trip. If you only have time for the city, refer to my full list of  things to do in Oaxaca City .

• Book your hotels in Oaxaca early and reserve  Day of the Dead group tours  in advance.
• Whether you are traveling Oaxaca for a week or a year, I highly recommend getting travel insurance . You never know what will happen, plus you’ll get compensated for things like flight cancellations, delays, loss of luggage and other incidents.  Read my travel insurance guide.
• Be respectful of the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations. This  Mexican holiday  celebrates the deceased with centuries-old traditions. Have fun and join in the celebrations, but don’t get drunk or high on the streets.
• Dia de Muertos is not a version of Halloween, so please do not wear sexy superhero costumes. Read this section on how to dress for Dia de Muertos in Oaxaca .
• Tourists are welcome to visit the cemeteries during Day of the Dead, but please do not touch anything on the altars or sit on tombstones.
• Avoid taking photos of people, or ask for permission before taking. Do not use flash at night.
• Cash is king in Oaxaca, so carry cash with you at all times. Only nice restaurants and hotels will accept cards.

I hope this guide to the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations has given you a good idea of what to expect. Oaxaca is definitely one of the best places to celebrate Day of the Dead and being part of the celebrations is a deeply immersive cultural experience.

I have also written a more comprehensive guide to Day of the Dead in Mexico as well as a specific post on Day of the Dead in Mexico City . Let me know if you have any questions in the comments field below.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• Day of the Dead in Mexico Ultimate Guide
• Day of the Dead in Mexico City
• Day of the Dead Symbols & Traditions
• Best Places to Celebrate Day of the Dead
• Who is the Day of the Dead Catrina?
• What are Alebrijes?
• Oaxaca Road Trip: My 10-Day Oaxaca Itinerary
• 30 Cool Things to Do in Oaxaca City

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Roaming Around the World

Travel Guides, Tips, and Tales

Day of the Dead in Mexico City: 10 Best Things to Do in 2023 + Where to Go

October 28, 2023 By John Widmer 57 Comments

Update: Nov 6, 2023 – Day of the Dead in Mexico City has come and gone for 2023. Use this article to take a look back at the annual events that took place in 2023, which can also help plan for things to do for Día de Muertos 2024 in CDMX. We’ll update this information for 2024 soon! Also, know that there are still some late-season Day of the Dead events lasting throughout November 2023 – see box below.

There are still a few Day of the Dead events in Mexico City lingering into November! Read on for full details. Here’s a quick schedule of late Día de Muertos things to do in November:

• Mexicráneos: through November 14
• Legend of La Llorona canal ride and show: through November 18
• Ofrenda at Casa Azul (Frida museum): through late November (exact end date unknown)
• Ofrenda at Anahuacalli (Diego Rivera museum): through December 17

Celebrating Day of the Dead in Mexico City is a festive and fascinating experience, with so many different things to do! The 2023 Día de Muertos celebrations in Mexico City are shaping up to be the biggest and most robust yet, as new annual events continue to be added to the wide assortment of things to do.

Throughout Mexico City, there are candlelit cemeteries to wander through for an intimate experience of this ancestral tradition. Yet there are also many big & festive Day of the Dead events in CDMX, such as parades and concerts.

Enormous ofrendas (remembrance altars) are erected in Mexico City’s Zócalo (central plaza) and elsewhere. Nighttime boat rides through ancient canals with special Día de Muertos performances are another fun thing to do on Day of the Dead in Mexico City.

For more culture, go to one of Mexico City’s renowned museums, which display their own elaborate ofrendas . Or join the party at one of the many fun-filled Day of the Dead celebrations spread throughout Mexico City’s colonias (neighborhoods).

Yet there are also simple customary Day of the Dead activities in Mexico City for everyone to enjoy, found just about anywhere in the city. For example, the traditions of getting a catrina face paint or eating pan de muerto (bread of the dead) are both must-dos during Day of the Dead in CDMX.

Although Day of the Dead in Mexico City has been a bit different in recent years, everything felt back to normal last year and should remain so for Dia de los Muertos 2023. In fact, some brand new Day of the Dead events were introduced last year and are anticipated to return in 2023!

Day of the Dead in Mexico City

Day of the Dead is a special holiday throughout Mexico. Known locally as Día de Muertos , this annual tradition is to remember and honor deceased family members . There is a belief that during this time the dead come closer to be with those of us who are living. It’s a beautiful custom that is unique to Mexico.

In fact, the holiday was even inscribed as one of Mexico’s intangible Unesco World Heritage Sites, right alongside mariachi and tequila! (Read the full Unesco description .)

These beautiful Day of the Dead traditions shine brightly throughout Mexico’s big sprawling capital city.

Why Travel to Mexico City for Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead is well worth traveling to Mexico to experience. Yet there are many places throughout the country to consider.

The town of Pátzcuaro has become arguably one of the most famous places to observe these cultural traditions surrounding Día de Muertos. Oaxaca is another notable city to observe the Day of the Dead customs. Or head further south to the state of Chiapas, where the indigenous traditions come alive in San Cristobal de las Casas . We spent our last Day of the Dead in Guadalajara to see how another big city celebrates this holiday.

Those are all great destinations to consider spending Dia de Muertos. But it’s Mexico City’s Day of the Dead festivities that we found so impressive, culturally interesting, loads of fun, and with so many options of things to do! In Mexico City, Day of the Dead celebrations combine many old and new traditions alike. This makes for a particularly attractive city in Mexico to experience Dia de los Muertos.

From a practical standpoint, the numerous flight connections to Mexico City make Mexico’s capital an easy place to travel to for Day of the Dead. There are many economical direct flights to Mexico City from other locations throughout Mexico, the US, Canada, and further abroad. To celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico City, there’s often no need for airport layovers, buses, or added travel. So simply for convenience, Mexico City can be an attractive choice to celebrate Day of the Dead. This holds particularly true for those traveling to Mexico from abroad to celebrate this special holiday.

Day of the Dead in Mexico City is a very festive time to be in the nation’s capital . Many of Mexico City’s streets are colorfully decorated. There’s a fun mood in the air. Even bars and restaurants throughout CDMX put up Day of the Dead ofrendas  during this holiday period.

But perhaps one of the best things about Day of the Dead in Mexico City is that there’s such a wide abundance of activities to partake in, from intimate gatherings at cemeteries to big festive celebrations. Like many aspects of Mexico City, everything tends to be big here. Day of the Dead in Mexico City is no exception.

The several Day of the Dead events in Mexico City range from cultural to commercial. It can be a little tricky figuring out exactly where to go and what events are most worth attending.

We’ve celebrated this special holiday in CDMX in a grand attempt to seek out the most interesting things to do in Mexico City during Day of the Dead. This detailed travel guide now offers our suggestions for anyone considering Day of the Dead in Mexico City in 2023 or beyond.

When Is Day of the Dead in Mexico City 2023?

Day of the Dead falls on November 2 every year throughout Mexico. Yet in Mexico City, the holiday can often feel like a weeklong affair . Many Day of the Dead festivities begin in Mexico City the weekend before Dia de los Muertos, and a few events even earlier! Then, the night of October 31 kicks off a 3-day string of Day of the Dead activities in Mexico City.

• October 31: eve of Dia de Muertos and is also known as noche de brujas (night of the witches).
• November 1: Day of the Innocents , commemorates deceased children.
• November 2:  the actual Day of the Dead.

In 2023, since Día de Muertos falls on a Thursday, there are many Day of the Dead events in Mexico City continuing during the weekend after the holiday. Even Mexico City’s Day of the Dead parade is the weekend after, falling on Saturday, November 4th this year.

It all makes for a busy and festive several days to spend in Mexico City! The Day of the Dead holiday period expands throughout the weekends before and after the November 2nd holiday. Mexico loves its fiestas after all!

Since Day of the Dead falls on a Thursday in 2023, festivities in Mexico City are well underway the weekend before Day of the Dead (Oct 28-29, 2023). A bulk of celebrations will fall on the actual holiday (Nov 1-2, 2023). Yet many popular Mexico City Dia de los Muertos events will also last into the weekend that follows (Nov 4-5, 2023).

When Is the Best Time to Be in Mexico City for Day of the Dead 2023

Since Day of the Dead falls mid-week in 2023, this makes planning a trip to Mexico City a bit trickier. That’s because some of Mexico City’s Día de Muertos events will be held the weekend before the Nov 2 holiday, while other events will be held the weekend after.

Those who have plenty of time to spare should consider staying in Mexico City from October 27 through November 5 , as the best time to maximize Mexico City’s Day of the Dead celebrations. That will provide over a week to experience the magic of Día de Muertos in Mexico City.

Meanwhile, if you are only able to stay for one weekend, you’ll need to choose wisely to stay during the weekend before or after, depending on the events and celebrations you may wish to attend.

Just know that either weekend you choose, there will certainly be an assortment of festive Day of the Dead activities going on throughout Mexico City.

10 Best Things to Do for Day of the Dead in Mexico City 2023

The remainder of this article details all the info and firsthand recommendations for what to do in Mexico City for Day of the Dead in 2023. Additionally, below is a map showing the location of everything listed throughout this travel guide.

Here’s a quick glance at all the best things to do for Day of the Dead in Mexico City 2023.

• Watch Mexico City’s Great Day of the Dead Parade
• Visit the Great Ofrenda in the Zocalo
• Join the fiesta in Xochimilco for Day of the Dead celebrations
• Float through the Legend of La Llorona in Xochimilco canals
• Enjoy the Coyoacán Day of the Dead festivities
• Visit Mexico City museums with special ofrendas
• Experience cemeteries on Day of the Dead in Mexico City
• Eat Pan de Muerto  from local bakeries
• Become a Catrina or Join the Procession of Catrinas
• Stroll Reforma for Giant Skulls, Huge Catrinas, Monumental Alebrijes, and Flower Fest Get thrilled at Six Flags Mexico City with Day of the Dead fun

1) Attend the Great Day of the Dead Parade in Mexico City 2023

Known locally as El Gran Desfile de Día de Muertos, The Great Day of the Dead Parade in Mexico City has quickly become a major event to celebrate the holiday in CDMX.

This big parade through Mexico City displays some of the beautiful ancestral traditions of Day of the Dead, complete with large skeleton puppets, moving altars, alebrijes (mythical spirit creatures), marigolds, catrinas , sugar skulls, traditional dancers, and more.

The Great Day of the Dead parade draws millions of spectators to Mexico City’s downtown area to witness the spectacular display. It’s a fun atmosphere, full of children and street vendors.

This Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City is actually a relatively new tradition that began in 2016. The parade is said to have been inspired by a scene in the 2015 James Bond film, Spectre . In the movie, the opening scene shows Daniel Craig as James Bond at a Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City.

But at the time the film was released, there was no such parade. So thereafter Mexico City decided to put on a big Day of the Dead parade, similar to what was depicted in the movie. It’s even been reported that props from the parade in the film are used in the actual parade today. This major parade has since become a beloved new tradition in Mexico City as millions of people come to witness it each year.

See the parade in action in this video we captured!

As it seemingly grows bigger each year, Mexico City’s Day of the Dead parade in 2023 is expected to be the best parade yet!

The 2023 Day of the Dead parade will feature 3,000 participants parade, 83 troupes, 9 big floats that pay tribute to the cultural history of Mexico, and another 12 pushable floats. There will be plenty of dancers and giant puppets among the participants to carry out this year’s parade theme.

If You Go: Info for Day of the Dead Parade Mexico City 2023

📅 When : Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 2:00 pm

📍 Where : The parade begins at Puerta de los Leones (entrance to Chapultepec Park), then travels up Av. Paseo de la Reforma, and ends at the Zocalo .

💲 Cost : Free

💡 Tip : It is advised to arrive as much as two hours early to get a good spot to actually view the parade. Viewing becomes extremely crowded and there is much traffic due to road closures leading up to the parade. Areas along the parade route are congested, as an estimated million people attend the parade each year. The pic below will provide some idea of the crowd size when attending the Great Day of the Dead Parade in Mexico City.

2) See the Monumental Ofrendas in Mexico City’s Zócalo

A visit to Mexico City’s Zócalo (the main square) is a must-do activity during a trip to Mexico City, any time of the year. During Day of the Dead, the enormous plaza takes on an even greater festive tone. There are grand ofrendas (altars honoring the dead) and stages set up for Day of the Dead celebrations.

As part of Mexico City’s Celebración de Muertos , a Great Ofrenda of the Zócalo depicts contemporary ofrendas throughout the plaza. Each year these giant ofrendas  carry a different theme. So the ofrendas you find in the plaza do change from one year to the next.

For 2023, the Monumental Ofrenda will be in tribute to Pancho Villa . It was announced that a part this year’s  ofrenda will reach 17 meters high. That’s higher than a five-story building! This towering ofrenda will be accompanied by additional ofrendas representing different traditions in Mexico. Head to Mexico City’s Zocalo to see these massive ofrendas, accompanied by a buzz of activity.

On the outskirts of the plaza, indigenous people perform traditional dance routines. It’s a fitting tribute, given that it takes place just outside of the ancient Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor where the historic center of Mexico City was built upon.

They also offer a limpia , or spiritual cleansing, by performing a quick ceremony blowing smoke and incense around your body. It’s a unique thing to do for Day of the Dead, right in the heart of Mexico City!

This all occurs on the Zocalo, just in front of the historic Aztec ruin site, Templo Mayor . If you’ve never been to this major historic attraction in Mexico City, Day of the Dead is a good time to visit. The archeological site also displays its own grand ofrenda , which will be on display through November 5.

The monumental ofrendas are located directly within the Zocalo, yet Mexico City’s historic center also displays different ofrendas along the streets in this area surrounding the Zocalo. It’s part of the Festival of Ofrendas and Floral Arrangements .

To see these many other ofrendas near the Zocala, simply walk around the historic center. This interactive map shows the locations of the 100+ displays found throughout the area. Yet you’re bound to run into many of these displays put together by Mexico City residents by simply roaming around Mexico City’s historic center.

If You Go: Monumental Ofrendas in Mexico City’s Zócalo

📅 When : October 29 – November 5, 2023

📍 Where : Zócalo. It’s perhaps the most centrally located spot in CDMX. So it’s easy to get to using public transport, taxi, Uber, or even walking. Exact location: here .

💲 Cost : Free. The indigenous dancers and cleansers perform off tips.

3) Celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico City’s Xochimilco Neighborhood

The Day of the Dead festivities throughout the alcaldía (borough) of Xochimilco feel particularly atmospheric. Many visitors to Mexico City come to Xochimilco for its famous canals, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yet the Day of the Dead festivities going on throughout the center of this working-class neighborhood are also well worth the trip 28 kilometers (~17 miles) south of Mexico City Centro .

During Day of the Dead in Xochimilco, many festivities typically take place. Xochimilco is known for its pulque, a fermented agave drink. So during Day of the Dead in Xochimilco, there is a pulque fiesta that takes place adjacent to the neighborhood’s central plaza.

For 2023, the pulque fiesta will be held October 27 – November 5, daily from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm in Xochimilco’s historic center. It’s free entry and the pulques themselves are very reasonably priced.

Meanwhile, an abundance of vendors flood the closed-off street in front of the plaza that temporarily becomes a pedestrian thoroughfare.

Cultural dances take place in the plaza. And colorful sawdust carpets are put on display, all as part of the Xochimilco’s Day of the Dead festivities. There are also special ofrendas erected at Xochimilco’s Museo Dolores Olmedo, that are worth visiting during Day of the Dead.

Personally, we’ve really enjoyed Xochimilco’s Day of the Dead festivities and recommend it for fun local festivities with few international tourists.

The Xochimilco Craft Expo in the historic center of Xochimilco features local foods and artisanal craft products. For 2023, Xochimilco’s Day of the Dead artisanal craft market will run from October 27 – November 3, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

That’s all in addition to Xochimilco’s bonfires, pre-Hispanic dances, ofrenda contests, skull contests, and sawdust “rugs” used as seasonal  Día de Muertos decorations.

Festivities in Xochimilco are underway the weekend before Day of the Dead and will continue through the holiday and even beyond. Expect folkloric ballets, live music, and other cultural events. Keep a pulse on the Xochimilco Facebook page for specific events and times, which are often announced last minute.

Yet what many people come to Xochimilco for are its famous canal boat rides. Boat trips offer visitors a glimpse into these canals throughout the year. But during the Día de Muertos period, there are special night canal trips with a show. More on that next!

If You Go: Info for Day of the Dead in Xochimilco

📅 When : Friday, Oct 27 – Nov 5, 2023 (artisanal market ends Nov 3).

📍 Where : In and around Plaza Central de Xochimilco, located: here .

💲 Cost : Free. Even the pulque festival is free, but the pulques themselves cost a few pesos, of course.

💡 Tip : When coming to Xochimilco for Día de Muertos, consider combining the visit with a ride in the famous canals that surround this neighborhood.

4) Experience the Legend of La Llorona through the Xochimilco Canals

All around the community of Xochimilco are the Unesco-listed canals that were dug out by the Aztecs. It’s a unique waterway that attracts people year-round to ride around on the colorful gondola-like boats called trajineras .

Yet as part of the Day of the Dead events in Mexico City, you can embark on a special night boat ride through the canals! It’s a Day of the Dead activity that’s been taking place in Mexico City for over 25 years now, called “La Llorona en Xochimilco.”

During the event, the ancient canals are transformed into a network of eerie waterways to tell the legend of La Llorona (The Weeper). This fable tells of a woman who drowned her children in a fit of rage and now spends eternity crying while searching for her children in the rivers.

This is a well-known tale all throughout Latin America that has been perpetuated even more broadly in pop culture in recent years. The song, La Llorona, is featured in the Disney-Pixar film Coco. And it’s this song that’s played throughout the evening while on the canals of Xochimilco. Even more recently, the lore of La Llorona forms the underlying plot for the 2019 movie, The Curse of La Llorona .

As people arrive at the pier where the trajineras depart, they stock up on snacks and cervezas, then load into these special boats. The boats can seat about 20 people, with a communal table in the middle. A separate boat carries La Llorona, as that famous song sharing her name, plays on a loop to a point that it’ll be stuck in your head for days.

After a 30-minute pole-propelled ride through the waterways, the boats reach a lake. It’s here that the boats get into a semi-circle formation to watch a big light & sound show with a live performance.

A huge pyramid lights up as Mexico’s history and myths are acted out. Of course, La Llorona makes an appearance too, but the performance goes well beyond her tale. The entire experience is part boat ride, part theater, part dance, and part sound & light show. It all adds up to quite a unique and interesting Day of the Dead event in Mexico City.

During the performance, vendor boats pull up in the back, offering everything from fresh hot elote (street corn) to tamales , and more cervezas . There’s even a boat carrying portable toilets, allowing people to relieve themselves for $10 pesos.

If You Go: Info for La Llorona Canal Boat Ride in Xochimilco

📅 When : This event runs all weekends from Oct 6 to Nov 18. During the week of Day of the Dead, beginning Oct 31, it runs daily through the following weekend. During the week leading up to Nov 2, it runs nightly. Start times vary by day, running as early as 6pm and as late as 11pm, with some nights having two time slots. The full schedule is on ticketmaster.com.mx .

📍 Where : There are many different points throughout Xochimilco to take a canal boat ride. Yet the only place to do this special La Llorona boat ride is from the Embarcadero Cuemanco Xochimilco , located here . It’s best to take an Uber or taxi.

💲 Cost : Tickets are $500 pesos (~$25 USD), inclusive of the boat ride and performance. Be sure to bring extra pesos (cash) to buy snacks & drinks, use the floating toilet, and/or tip the boatman.

🎟️  Tickets : You can buy tickets in advance, online at ticketmaster.com.mx . Do note that you still need to pick up the physical tickets at a Ticketmaster center. Also, be aware that by using Ticketmaster, there is a $50 peso service fee per ticket and a $35 peso ticket fee per order. Yet these nominal fees can be worth it to secure a ticket, particularly on busy weekends and on Día de Muertos.

Alternatively, there is a ticket booth at the boat docks in Cuemanco Xochimilco to buy tickets before the show. But be sure to arrive plenty early to queue up to buy tickets. Ticketing and boat assignments do take some time to work out, so allow plenty of time. We suggest arriving at least an hour before your desired trip.

💡 Tips for La Llorona Boat Ride and Show :

• Consider bringing mosquito repellent as they can sometimes be found buzzing around the canals.
• Bring a good jacket for a potentially chilly evening and/or rain.
• Have small bills/change to buy food & drinks.
• Attempt as best as possible to get in the middle of the queue to get on the boats. Don’t be first in line or last. This will provide better odds of getting a central position to watch the performance.

5) Join Festivities for Day of the Dead in Coyoacán Centro

Día de Muertos in Coyoacán Centro is one of the biggest Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico City. It’s quite the fiesta here!

This borough of Mexico City is an artsy neighborhood that goes all out for Day of the Dead. Within Coyoacán’s adjoining main plazas there are many ornate public ofrendas (altars) that are put on display. Stages are erected for cultural performances, orchestras, and even a catrina contest.

Surrounding Coyoacán’s main plazas are several blocks that are all closed-off to vehicular traffic. Instead, the streets are filled with a fair-like atmosphere.

There are loads of street food vendors, small carnival rides, and games to play. So chow down on some tacos and then play a carny game as music blares. It’s a really fun atmosphere to take in!

Coyoacán’s Day of the Dead celebrations include ofrendas in its main plaza and jardin (garden), many food vendors, children’s workshops, a local parade, and more.

We’ve found it easy to spend an entire afternoon and evening soaking in Coyoacán’s Day of the Dead festivities spanning several city blocks. However, those with lots of time or staying in the area could even consider coming here multiple days to take in the concerts and many other scheduled events.

Coyoacán’s main ofrenda display and other festivities begin Saturday, October 27, 2023 when the main ofrenda is inaugurated. A full schedule of Coyoacán events continues through November 4, which includes many daily concerts and Coyoacán’s local parade (Nov 1, 6:00 pm). See Coyoacán’s full calendar of events.

In addition to the major Day of the Dead festivities around Coyoacán’s gardens and plazas, many of Coyoacán’s museums also display elaborate Day of the Dead ofrendas . See #6!

If You Go: Info for Day of the Dead in Coyoacán 2023

📅 When : Most of Coyoacán’s festivities are underway by October 27 and continue through November 4, 2023. See this calendar of events for exact dates and times.

📍 Where : The festivities are held around the Centro de Coyoacán, which is anchored by the adjoining Plaza Hildago and Jardín Centenario, located: here .

💲 Cost : Free to attend festivities and see Coyoacán’s ofrendas . Additional pesos are recommended for food and other activities.

💡 Tip : When coming to Coyoacán Centro for Day of the Dead, consider combining a visit with nearby museums exhibiting Day of the Dead displays (see #6, below).

6) See the Day of the Dead Ofrendas at Mexico City’s Museums

Many of Mexico City’s museums put up elaborate ofrendas as a remembrance of the person or people the museum honors. Other museums offer a deeper look into the cultural traditions of Day of the Dead. The following four museums hold some of the most notable displays and temporary exhibits related to Día de Muertos.

Three of these museums with ofrendas are located within semi-close proximity to one another in Coyoacán. With good planning and advanced reservations, it’s possible and convenient to visit all three on the same day. Just don’t go on Monday – that’s when Mexico City’s museums are closed.

6a) Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo Museum) Ofrenda

Arguably, one of the best ofrendas at a museum is at the Casa Azul (Blue House), also known as the Museo Frida Kahlo (Frida Kahlo Museum). This museum, dedicated to Mexico’s most famed female artist, puts up an elaborate display for Frida. It’s a lovingly impressive tribute to Frida!

While the ofrenda always honors Frida, the museum puts on a different theme each year and a completely different ofrenda . Last year, the theme was “The Kahlo-Cauldrons: Family Tree.” The museum’s ofrenda is honoring Frida’s grandparents, fathers and sisters.

For 2023, the museum announced the theme will be in tribute to Carlos Pellicer and his connection to Frida. The poet from Tabasco will be honored at this year’s  ofrenda in styles from his home state. It’s a fitting tribute since Carlos Pellicer helped to establish the Frida Khalo museum that’s now honoring him.

📅 When: October 22 through November 2023. Museum hours: 10 am – 5:45 pm (last entrance at 5 pm). From 11 am on Wed, closed Mon. 📍 Where: Located here , in Coyoacán. 💲 Cost : Included with museum entrance of $250 pesos (+$17.50 peso service fee) ℹ️ Tickets & More Info : Buy advanced tickets here 💡 Tip : Be sure to buy your timed entrance museum ticket because they do sell out.

6b) Anahuacalli (Diego Rivera) Museum  Ofrenda  

Anahuacalli is a museum dedicated to Diego Rivera. Of course, there is a huge ofrenda for this famous Mexican artist.

There is a different theme to Rivera’s ofrenda each year. For Day of the Dead 2023, it has been announced that the theme of the Anajuacalli Museum’s ofrenda will be “Pico y Chapo,” a tribute to Diego Rivera’s daughters. Pico y Chapo are the nicknames Rivera gave to his daughters. Expect 2023’s ofrenda to reflect upon the relationships the famed artist had with his two daughters, Mexican architect Ruth (Pico, 1927-1969) and French actress Marika (Chapo, 1919-2010).

Anahuacalli also hosts a Cocoa Festival during the Day of the Dead holiday time. The cocoa-themed festival includes cultural activities, tastings, workshops and live music.

📅 When: Pico y Chapo ofrenda : October 27 – December 17, 2023.                  Cocoa Festival: November 2-5, 2023. 📍 Where: Located here , in Coyoacan. 💲 Cost : Museum entrance – $100 pesos, Cocoa Festival – free ℹ️ Tickets & More Info : Reserve tickets here

6c) National Museum of Popular Cultures Ofrenda and Workshop

The Museo Nacional de Culturas Populares (National Museum of Popular Cultures) typically displays ofrendas from different parts of Mexico. This is a great place to learn about the regional differences in Day of the Dead celebrations throughout the entire country.

Like the other museums, the ofrendas changes annually. Last year the theme was Memorias de la vida, miradas de la muerte , loosely translated as “Memories of life, looks of death.”

For 2023, the National Museum of Popular Cultures is having doing three Day of the Dead workshops, each on a different day. They’re all free too – so go get crafty!

Here is the schedule for 2023:

• October 31, 2023: Coffin toy making at 11:00 AM, Noon, and 1:00 PM.
• November 1, 2023: Cardboard skull decorating at 11:00 AM, Noon, and 1:00 PM.
• November 2, 2023: Paint a customized skull mask at 11:00 AM, Noon, and 1:00 PM.

📅 When: Museum hours: 11am – 6pm. Closed Mondays. 📍 Where: Located here , in Coyoacán. 💲 Cost : Free!

6d) Museum of Popular Art Ofrenda and Mini Alebrijes Display

Mexico City’s Museo de Arte Popular (Museum of Popular Art) carries lots of interesting folk art related to Day of the Dead and has special celebrations around the holiday. Like the aforementioned museums, the Museum of Popular Art also erects a special ofrenda that changes annually.

The museum also displays its mini alebrijes collection as part of its Day of the Dead exhibits. For those unfamiliar, alebrijes are mythical Day of the Dead creatures, often depicted in brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures.

Mexico City’s Museum of Popular Art also hosts a parade of alebrijes . This is one of the few early Day of the Dead events scheduled in Mexico City, as the museum’s alebrijes parade occurs on Saturday, October 21st, 2023. The parade begins in the Zocalo at Noon, and continues along Avenida 5 de Mayo and Paseo de la Reforma, to conclude at the roundabout of the Columna del Ángel de la Independencia.

If you’re not in Mexico City that early and still want to see the alebrijes , don’t worry. There’s another chance to check them out. After the conclusion of the parade, the alebrijes remain on display from Oct 21 – Nov 5, along the sidewalks of the Paseo between Columna de la Independencia and Calle Lieja.

📅 When: Museum hours: 10 am-5 pm. Closed Mondays. Alebrijes Parade is on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Noon. 📍 Where: The museum  is l ocated here , in Centro. The giant alebrijes are displayed here  at the Independence Column. 💲 Cost : Museum entrance is $60 pesos, free on Sundays.

7) Visit a Cemetery in Mexico City for Day of the Dead

While there are many public Day of the Dead celebrations throughout Mexico City, much of the Día de Muertos traditions are a family affair. Families typically gather at ofrendas within their homes and at the cemeteries, to remember and honor their deceased loved ones.

A festive atmosphere spills over into the graveyards, as families commune with their fallen relatives. Graves are decorated with fresh flowers. Candles are lit. Pan de muerto is passed around. Lots of eating and drinking takes place, all right at the gravesites. Many of the deceased’s favorite foods and beverages are left for them to enjoy in the afterlife.

You can typically find these traditions being carried out in many of Mexico’s City’s cemeteries, many of which are known locally as panteónes .

On the night of November 2, Mexico City cemeteries become completely abuzz as the graves are lit up by candlelight and Cempasúchil (marigold flowers) are scattered about. It’s a beautiful custom to take in and observe ancestral traditions.

When visiting a cemetery for Day of the Dead, visitors must be respectful and should come with some understanding of the cultural traditions that are being carried out. Realize this is not a tourist attraction to gawk at and take photos. These are family members reconnecting with their deceased loved ones. That said, some Mexico City cemeteries are welcoming of respectful visitors.

Best Mexico City Cemeteries to Visit during Day of the Dead

Visitors should realize that not all of Mexico City’s cemeteries hold Day of the Dead celebrations. Some cemeteries remain closed during the holiday or close during the night hours. Other cemeteries may have family gatherings. Meanwhile, a handful of Mexico City cemeteries have robust celebrations and festivities.

Here are some Mexico City cemeteries to consider, which have Day of the Dead activity on November 2:

• Panteón Mixquic (Tláhuac)
• Panteón de San Fernando (Cuauhtémoc)
• Panteón Civil de Dolores (Miguel Hidalgo)
• Cementerio Xilotepec (Xochimilco)
• Panteón Santorum (Miguel Hidalgo)
• Panteón Francés Francis Pantheon (Cuauhtémoc)
• Panteón San Isidro (Azcapotzalco)
• Panteón El Calvario (Cuajimalpa)
• Panteón San José (Iztacalco)
• Panteón Jardín (Álvaro Obregón)

With so many cemeteries scattered around, which is the best Mexican City cemetery to visit on Day of the Dead?

That depends on a number of factors and personal preferences such as willingness to travel far, opening hours, and the type of Day of the Dead experience you may be looking for. Yet top recommended cemeteries include Panteón Mixquic, Panteón de San Fernando, Panteón Civil de Dolores, and Cementerio Xilotepec. Here’s more info on those.

Top Pick: Visiting Mixquic Cemetery on Day of the Dead

Mixquic is our top recommendation for a cemetery to experience cultural traditions and festivities . It is the most famous Mexico City cemetery for its nighttime Day of the Dead celebrations. The festivities here are even rumored to have been the inspiration for the cemetery in the movie, Coco . Mixquic is a great choice to visit for those who experience a grand array of Día de Muertos rituals.

Just be aware of the lengthy commute from central Mexico City, where you’ll likely be staying. Those wanting to go to Mixquic for its impressive Day of the Dead festivities, must put in the time and effort to get there.

When going to Mixquic to experience Dia de los Muertos, understand that it takes about two hours to reach from Mexico City centro. If staying in Centro , it can be most convenient to take one of the scheduled bus trips that travel to the Mixquic cemetery at night for Day of the Dead.

We always suggest booking  a Day of the Dead visit to Mixquic early because these buses sell out every year . We typically recommend this 2023 Mixquic bus tour from Mexico City, which has central meeting points in Mexico City, provides a good length of time at Mixquic, is reasonably priced, has a good record of reviews, and has a track record of being on time.

However, our recommended tour sold out by September this year. Alternatively, try this other Day of the Dead in Mixquic trip , which departs at 5pm from the Starbucks at the Fiesta Americana Reforma hotel. Do note that it has mixed reviews, but it’s an inexpensive price to get to Mixquic for Day of the Dead.

While Mixquic is often touted as the best cemetery in the Mexico City area to visit during Day of the Dead, there are other cemeteries in Mexico’s capital to see the decorated graves and festivities.

Top Pick: Visting Panteón de San Fernando Cemetery on Day of the Dead

Panteón de San Fernando is an alternate consideration for a Mexico City cemetery to visit on Day of the Dead that is far more conveniently located to Centro . Panteon de San Fernando is a historic cemetery in the heart of Mexico City. It is also the final resting place of notable Mexican residents, such as former president Benito Juárez.

During Day of the Dead, Panteón de San Fernando welcomes visitors with a number of activities from October 31 – November 5, 2023. For example, performers wander through the cemetery telling tales (in Spanish) and acting out the history of those who lie here. See the full schedule of activities here for each of these six days.

Do understand that some of the theatrics at San Fernando are less customary Día de Muertos happenings. Yet many traditional Day of the Dead customs do remain. It all makes for a special and intriguing Day of the Dead experience at a Mexico City cemetery that’s very worthwhile to experience!

Visit Panteón de Dolores Cemetery in Mexico City

Also consider Panteón de Dolores , a popular option that is also centrally located in CDMX. Panteón de Dolores is the largest cemetery in Mexico City and many famous people are also buried here.

In comparison, the Día de Muertos festivities at Panteón de Dolores are not as highly regarded as at Mixquic and there are no organized events like at Panteón de San Fernando. But Panteón de Dolores is a famous, centrally-located cemetery in Mexico City with a buzz of Day of the Dead gatherings.

If You Go: Info for Visiting a Cemetery in Mexico City during Day of the Dead

📅 When:  Graveyards during Day of the Dead in Mexico City are typically at their most festive on the night of November 2, with a mounting activity beginning to swirl on Oct 31 and into Nov 1.

📍 Where: Mixquic is located here , about a 2+ hour drive from downtown Mexico City, pending traffic conditions. Panteón de San Fernando is more centrally located here . Panteón Civil de Dolores is also centrally located here .

💲 Cost:  There’s no charge to enter the cemeteries to experience these Day of the Dead traditions in Mexico City.

💡 Tip : Even though a festive atmosphere carries over into the cemeteries, it’s important to remember to be respectful . Keep in mind that people are at relatives’ gravesites remembering their family members who have passed away. This is not a tourist attraction to gawk at. Don’t dare touch the grave displays or graveside offerings. It’s also best to refrain from snapping photos of people.

8) Eat Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead) in Mexico City

Pan de muerto is a special bread that is sold all over in the days leading up to Day of the Dead in Mexico City. This bread of the dead can be found in supermarkets, bakeries, and street vendors. We even see it being promoted for delivery on Uber Eats – it’s everywhere!

It is traditional to eat this sweet bread during the Día de Muertos holiday, whether at a gravesite or in the home at the ofrenda . Sometimes the bread is left for the departed loved ones too, as witnessed at gravesites throughout Mexico.

The shapes baked atop the bread are meant to symbolize bones, representing the deceased. It’s a nice, fluffy bread that is not overly sweet. There are different variations of pan de muerto , as some are topped with sesame seeds and others contain a filling.

In Mexico City, the most common type of Pan de Muerto has a good dusting of sugar on the top, not too dissimilar from a sugar donut. It’s a tasty treat to eat during Day of the Dead in Mexico City! And this is a Day of the Dead tradition that everyone can participate in throughout Mexico City!

There are even pan de muerto festivals throughout Mexico City dedicated to this seasonal treat. The Coyoacan Coffee, Chocolate, and Pan de Muerto Festival proclaims to be the biggest pan de muerto festival in Mexico City. It’s held at the Churubusco Convention Center and for 2023 is being held Friday, November 3 – Sunday, November 5, 11:00 am – 7:00 pm, with free entry.

If You Go: Info for Eating Pan de Muerto in Mexico City

📅 When : Pan de muerto typically starts to show up at markets and bakeries a few weeks prior to Day of the Dead in Mexico City. It can be found in even much greater abundance on Nov 1 & 2.

📍 Where : Pan de muerto is everywhere. Mexico City’s bakeries will have some of the better pan de muerto. Three notable suggestions for pan de muerto  that come highly recommended by chilangos are:

• Pastelería Ideal in Centro – One of the most traditional and largest bakeries in Mexico City, the longstanding bakery has plenty of pan de muerto that is quite popular with locals.
• Pandaria Rosetta in Roma – This bakery, led by renowned chef Elena Reygadas, is a more gourmet take on pan de muerto that includes orange blossom.
• Pasteleria Suiza in Roma – One of Mexico City’s oldest bakeries, Pastelería Suiza keeps their pan de muerto traditional and delicious.

Yet pan de muerto is also widely available in supermarkets throughout Mexico City. Bakery stalls at popular Day of the Dead locations will also have plenty of pan de muerto for sale. During Day of the Dead in Mexico City, you can even find pan de muerto listed on Uber Eats. So you can use the app, search “pan de muerto,” and have this seasonal treat delivered directly to your door!

💲 Cost : Expect to pay $10-$50 pesos, depending on the quality and where you buy your pan de muerto.

💡 Tip : Just be sure to enjoy this special sweet bread if in Mexico City on Day of the Dead!

9) Get Catrina Face Paint and Join the Procession of Catrinas

Catrinas are those skeletal depictions that have become an icon of Day of the Dead, like this one.

As such, one Day of the Dead tradition that has become quite popular in Mexico City is to get a catrina face painting. Kids and adults do it. Both locals and visitors alike dawn this sugar skull face paint.

In the popular Day of the Dead locations throughout Mexico City, there are face make-up artists among the street vendors, ready to paint faces in this sugar skull fashion. Booklets of options are available to choose a design. Yet some people come up with their own idea from pictures found online and shown on their phones.

A catrina is a female. But men get in the act too, which is instead known as a catrin . Whether a catrin or catrina, it’s a fun way to get into the spirit of Day of the Dead in Mexico City.

Face painters usually abound throughout Mexico City during the Day of the Dead holiday time. Expect to find face painters at popular event areas, such as the Zocalo and Coyoacan. But sometimes lengthy waits can occur. Go early and don’t hesitate to get your face painted if you find a small queue.

You can also consider doing it yourself. Black and white face paint can be easy to find. Then you just need an artistic friend or family member who can help apply it. Tutorials abound on Youtube. Try searching Youtube: catrina face paint tutorial .

To see Mexico City’s catrins and cantrinas all out in full force, consider attending the Mega Procesión de las Catrinas (Procession of the Catrinas). The Mega Procesión de las Catrinas is an entire parade of catrinas, different and separate from the official CDMX Day of the Dead Parade.

During the Mega Procesión de las Catrinas , visitors can actually participate, rather than just spectate, marching together along Av Paseo de la Reforma.

You can find lots of face painters in the hours leading up to the precision. Once you’ve been transformed into a catrina, then join the parade! Vehicle traffic is closed on Av Reforma so that you can join all the other catrinas in marching down Mexico City’s grand avenue!

For 2023, the Mega Procesión de las Catrinas is confirmed for Sunday, October 22, 2023.

If You Go: Wearing Catrina Face Paint and Mega Procesión de las Catrinas

📅 When : P eople choose to adorn catrina face paint throughout Mexico City from October 31-November 2 when attending festivities.

📍 Where : To get a catrina face paint, expect to find face painters wherever Día de Muertos festivities are taking place. Good spots in Mexico City to find make-up are typically the Zocalo and Jardin Centenario in Coyoacan.

💲 Cost : Expect to pay anywhere between $50-$200 pesos for a catrina face paint, depending on the skill of the make-up artist, the complexity of the design, whether half or full face, and the time it takes.

ℹ️ More info : See the Catrina Procession’s official website (in Spanish) and Facebook page

💡 Tip : Catrina face painting is a very popular thing to do during Day of the Dead in Mexico City. As such, lines for face painting become long. Go early to avoid a wait.

10) Experience the Many Seasonal Displays and Events along Reforma

For those new to Mexico City, the Paseo de la Reforma is the grand boulevard that cuts across Mexico City from Chapultepec Park towards the historic city center. The historic avenue passes by some of the city’s tallest buildings and is often a place to celebrate. And during Day of the Dead in Mexico City, there are many temporary installations, events, and traditions that pop up along this famous avenue.

Take a stroll along Paseo de la Reforma on the weekend before Day of the Dead and you’ll encounter an assortment of art installations such as giant sugar skulls, monumental alebrijes , and towering catrina figures. That’s all in addition to the illuminated skyscrapers, the flower festival, and let’s not forget Saturday’s parade! There’s loads of Day of the Dead magic scattered all across this famous ave.

10.1) Cempasúchil Festival and Flowers along Reforma

The orange cempasúchitl flowers (AKA Mexican marigolds) are a major Day of the Dead tradition in Mexico. These are the flowers that are used to decorate graves and are seen widely throughout Mexico during the holiday. It is said that the scent of the cempasúchils helps attract the departed souls.

Each year you can find the Festival of Cempasúchil Flowers along Av Reforma in the days leading up to Día de Muertos. During this festival, there are loads of these special flowers to admire and buy with over a hundred florists set up along Av Reforma between Glorieta del Ahuehuete and the Ángel de la Independencia .

Sometimes live music accompanies the vendors during this flower fest. In 2023, the Cempasúchil Flower Festival will run from October 18-31. Go check it out and consider buying some of these seasonal flowers.

(Note: there is also new “Cempasúchil Gastronomic and Cultural Festival” being held Oct 27-29, on the Esplanade of the Gustavo A. Madero Mayor’s Office. This is a different event than what occurs along Reforma.)

In addition to the Cempasúchil flower festival, the Mexico City government also places over 200,000 potted cempasúchil flowers all throughout Mexico City during Day of the Dead. One stretch of roadway to find the festive orange flowers is along Paseo de la Reforma, across the 9-kilometer stretch of Av Reforma between Periférico and Eje 2 Norte .

📅 When: Festival of Cempasúchil Flowers runs October 18-31, 2023 Potted flowers are dispersed across the streets in the week leading up to Día de Muertos. 💲 Cost : free to attend, flowers for purchase 📍 Where : Paseo de la Reforma between the Angel of Independence and Glorieta de Ahuehuete.

10.2) Monumental Alebrijes

As already mentioned when discussing Mexico City’s museum displays, the Museum of Popular Art puts on a parade of monumental alebrijes. After the alebrijes parade wraps up, the giant alebrijes used in the parade are displayed all along Paseo de la Reforma.

📅 When: October 21 thru November 5, 2023 💲 Cost : free 📍 Where : Paseo de la Reforma around Angel of Independence  

10.3) Monument Illuminations

Another Day of the Dead tradition along the Paseo de la Reforma is the monument illuminations. Each year Mexico City lights up its most famous monuments and buildings with the color of orange for Day of the Dead. This is to symbolize the orange cempasúchitl flowers.

A trip down the  Paseo during this time of year provides a unique opportunity to see Mexico’s most notable structures all lit up in orange. So consider strolling Paseo de la Reforma in the evening to see these buildings and monuments illuminated. Even if you’re simply in the back of an Uber commuting from one place to another, be sure to look up to appreciate Mexico City’s cempasúchitl -colored buildings, unique to this seasonal holiday.

📅 When: Nightly around the week of Day of the Dead 💲 Cost : free 📍 Where : Paseo de la Reforma

10.4) See the Mexicráneos – Giant Sugar Skulls

Mexicráneos is an exhibit of giant sugar skulls uniquely designed with meaning and each painted by different Mexican artists. During this Day of the Dead tradition, the monumental skulls are set up all along Reforma. Last year there were 55 of these giant ornate and colorful skulls, each with unique decoration and symbolism.

Mexicráneos skulls are back along Av Reforma for Día de Muertos 2023 in Mexico City. You can find them there through November 14. Yet for those arriving in Mexico City earlier or later, know that you can also find sixteen Mexicráneos on display at Parque Bicentanario , near the orchid gardens, through December.

📅 When: Now through November 14, 2023 💲 Cost : free 📍 Where : Along Paseo de la Reforma                    Location #2: Parque Bicentenario, located here .

Bonus) Get Scared at Six Flags Mexico’s Special Event

Taking a trip to the Six Flags Mexico theme park is certainly a much more commercial and not-so-traditional event to consider during Dia de los Muertos. Yet it’s still a very fun thing to do during Day of the Dead in Mexico City which does indeed display Día de Muertos traditions. And it’s fantastic value too!

In addition to fright-filled attractions like extravagant haunted houses, Six Flags Mexico also has its own Day of the Dead parade that’s included with park admission. During this holiday period, Six Flags is adorned with skeleton figures. Meanwhile, many catrinas roam around the theme park, greeting visitors.

If the haunted attractions don’t manage to scare you (they will), the crazy thrill rides at Six Flags Mexico will certainly make you scream.

It all makes for a fun and festive atmosphere! Yet we’d only recommend this for those with longer stays in Mexico City during Day of the Dead, or those who really love theme parks. Otherwise, we put much greater weight on the aforementioned cultural activities.

📅 When : September 14 – November 12, 2023

📍 Where : Six Flags Mexico is about a 30-minute drive South of Centro, located here , easily reached by Uber.

💲 Cost : Single-day tickets to Six Flags Mexico are $749 pesos (~$40 USD). The entrance fee includes all rides, seasonal activities such as certain zones, shows, and a Día de Muertos parade. The additional fright attractions (e.g., haunted houses) do require an extra ticket of $260 pesos (~$13 USD).

🌐 Tickets & More Info : See the Official Six Flags Mexico Fright Fest website

💡 Tip : Check for promotions when buying tickets. Often annual passes are just a few pesos more than a single-day ticket.

Travel Tips for Day of the Dead in Mexico City 2023

If planning to travel to Mexico City for Day of the Dead 2023, there are many things to be aware of to make your trip easier, avoid hassle, and save money.

❗Be Sure to Secure Early Travel Reservations to Mexico City for Day of the Dead

As travel returned and thrived last year, Day of the Dead in Mexico City proved extremely popular. Many Mexico City hotels became booked solid by mid-October. By late October there was little or no occupancy available anywhere in the city.

Understand that in 2023 the Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix (Oct 29) coincides with Día de Muertos time, further creating a high demand for flights, hotels, and attractions.

Secure all travel reservations as early as possible to avoid disappointment. It is absolutely imperative to make travel reservations early when visiting Mexico City during this busy holiday period. Now is the time to secure your preferred room and lock in the best prices too! This is our #1 tip to heed for Day of the Dead 2023 !

🏨 Book Accommodation Now to Lock in the Best Place & Price for 2023

We’ve found Booking.com to have the most hotel listings in Mexico City and usually the best prices too! At the time of last updating this article, a quick browse through Booking.com shows lots of great properties still available and some great deals! Swoop in on those now before prices inevitably rise and the best places sell out.

At last check, 84% of Mexico City hotels were unavailable (already booked up) on Booking during the weekend before Day of the Dead.

There is more availability during the weekend after Day of the Dead (Nov 3-5), when Día de Muertos events, such as the parade, will still be taking place throughout Mexico City. Definitely consider coming or staying through the weekend after Day of the Dead.

Yet since the parade dates were recently announced, we expect hotels to quickly fill during the Nov 4-5 weekend too. So if you haven’t booked a room yet, definitely book while there’s still some availability left in Mexico Weekend for that final weekend of Day of the Dead festivities!

Search Booking.com for Mexico City hotel availability during your travel dates .

Meanwhile, short-term rentals, such as Airbnb can be a consideration particularly when staying in Mexico City for a longer period or with a group of people. A quick search on Airbnb shows that some of Mexico City’s most desirable units are already booked up during the Day of the Dead 2023 period. Since these units are one-of-a-kind, if there’s a particular Airbnb you’re eyeing, do not wait to book it.

🌇 Best Neighborhood to Stay In for Day of the Dead in Mexico City

Since Day of the Dead events are spread out widely across North America’s largest city, there are many options for areas to consider staying. Yet wherever you decide to stay in Mexico City for Day of the Dead, there are plenty of transportation options to get around given the Metro, Ubers, and the walkability of many areas.

Our top picks for Mexico City neighborhoods to stay in for Day of the Dead are:

• Centro Historico

Staying overnight in Mexico City’s Centro Historico (the historic center) will put you within walking distance of the grand ofrendas in the Zócalo and the parade route. Centro Histórico can be a good fit for budget travelers to stay in Mexico City during Day of the Dead, as there is a greater abundance of hostels and good budget hotels, all while being centrally located.

Staying in the desirable Roma or Condesa neighborhoods will put you in close proximity to the Day of the Dead Parade route, amidst popular restaurants, bars, and other attractions in this Mexico City hotspot. Accommodation prices tend to be higher here since accommodation leans upmarket, as it’s a popular option for many visitors to Mexico City.

Nearby Polanco is a good swanky option with its abundance of upscale hotels. Or consider a hotel directly on Paseo de la Reforma to potentially have the Day of the Dead parade right outside your window.

Staying in Coyoacán might be worth considering if you find a great place to stay there or if you have a heavy agenda of Coyoacán’s museums and fiestas. After all, the Coyoacán neighborhood puts on many Day of the Dead events. But Coyoacán has fewer accommodation options and would prove a bit inconvenient for all the other happenings located closer to the city’s center.

Meanwhile, we find that further-flung neighborhoods, such as Xochimilco, are better visited as a day trip.

🛫 Flights into Mexico City Become Full during the Muertos Holiday Period

Flights to Mexico City during late October tend to get booked full, have high fares, and even get oversold. It’s best to secure airfare as early as possible. Each year prices tend to rise significantly when by September and even more into October when some flights become sold out.

It’s always our recommendation to try as best as possible to book a flight into Mexico City early to avoid high prices and/or flights at inconvenient hours.

👕 Pack Clothes for Cool Weather in Mexico City during Día de Muertos

It gets chilly at night in Mexico City during late October and early November, so be sure to pack clothes to keep warm.

On November 1, the average low temperature dips down to 49° F / 9° C, while the average high only reaches 73° F / 23° C (source: WeatherSpark ). Dress accordingly.

It would also be a good idea to pack a light rain jacket. While the Day of the Dead holiday is at the end of Mexico City’s rainy season, it still does rain on occasion in late October and early November.

🍬 Consider Bringing Your Favorite Candy from Home for Niños in Mexico City

Some young children in Mexico City dress up in Halloween-type costumes in popular areas of Mexico City and carry pales for candy. Rather than going door-to-door trick-or-treating, passersby will have candy to toss in their pales.

Of course, you can buy candy once you’re in Mexico City. There are plenty of stores that carry both local sweets and familiar favorites. But it could be special to bring some of your favorite sweet treats from home to share something new/different with the little ones.

🧛 Wear a Costume for Day of the Dead in Mexico City?

No, don’t bring a Halloween-type costume for any Day of the Dead events. Doing so is uncommon and even frowned upon at events like the Catrina parade.

Some small children do dress up in Halloween-type costumes in Mexico City. So if you’re traveling with kids who really want to dress up, it could be a consideration. But adults do not typically dress up in a costume like you would for Halloween.

Instead, dress up as catrins and catrinas for Day of the Dead. Having catrin(a) facepaint is done by visitors and locals alike. There will be many face painters on hand in the popular event locations to be properly adorned with face paint.

⚠️ Make Sure You Have Travel Insurance

While we find Mexico City to be generally safe, you never know what may occur. Possibilities include earthquakes, canceled flights, car accidents, lost baggage, your phone falling in the water, your camera getting lost or stolen, etc. Or you could just get sick while on vacation.

The  most serious possibility would be a medical emergency or major accident, in which you’d need extensive hospitalization and/or medical evacuation back to your home country. Your medical insurance back home almost certainly would not cover such a catastrophic event in a foreign country. This is why travel insurance coverage can be so important when traveling to Mexico.

Travel insurance will have you covered so that you don’t incur the high cost of these unfortunate possibilities. We never roam around Mexico without it.

The type of travel insurance you use may depend on the type of trip, expenses, and the amount of coverage you seek. We have personally used each of these two during our many trips to Mexico. Get quotes for your trip, review the coverage, and see what may work best for you:

• Safety Wing – A cost-effective solution for travel medical insurance without additional coverage, used by many digital nomads and long-term travelers
• World Nomads  – More coverage, used for both short and longer trips

ℹ️ Trust Official Sources for Event Dates, Times, and Details

During previous years of Day of the Dead in Mexico City, we’ve found news articles and blogs that incorrectly reported event times and dates, based purely on speculation and hearsay. Unfortunately, we must wait until official announcements come later in October to know when all these Mexico City Day of the Dead events will actually occur in 2023.

For those of us who like to plan ahead, it can be frustrating to have to wait well into October to get the details of event information. But it is best to be patient and await official info to be released to avoid misinformation about event times.

Official government sources to watch (in Spanish) include the Mexico City Ministry of Culture , Mexico City Ministry of Tourism , and their associated social media pages.

🪦 Respect Cultural Traditions of Day of the Dead in Mexico City

While many of Mexico City’s Day of the Dead events are fun and festive, visitors must realize that this holiday is a personal experience to remember and honor their deceased relatives.

As visitors, it is important to act respectfully when observing these deep cultural traditions. This holds particularly true at cemeteries and family ofrendas found throughout Mexico.

🍺 Understand Ley Seca (Dry Laws) during Day of the Dead in Mexico City

Some of Mexico City’s boroughs enact a ley seca (dry law) that forbids the sale of alcohol during the Day of Dead holiday time. So be aware that there may be areas where you cannot grab a drink for a few days. This temporary prohibition on alcohol in Mexico City will occur in 2023 in these locations and dates:

• Magdalena Contreras, Oct 28-29, 2023
• Tláhuac, Oct 31 – Nov 2, 2023
• Xochimilco, Oct 31 – Nov 2, 2023

This ban on alcohol will not affect many popular tourist areas in Mexico City (Centro, Roma, Coyoacan, etc.). But those attending Day of the Dead festivities in Magdalena Contreras, Tláhuac or Xochimilco, should be aware of the aforementioned dates if you want to purchase alcohol while there. Plan accordingly.

💡 More Travel Tips You Need to Know Before You Go to Mexico

For more Mexico travel tips , be sure to check out our new post:

• 75+ Best Mexico Travel Tips to Know Before Your Trip .

This in-depth article reveals how to save money, avoid hassle, stay safe, respect cultural etiquette and have fun in this wonderful country!

Experiencing Day of the Dead in Mexico City

We hope this guide to Day of the Dead in Mexico City has provided some idea of what to expect when celebrating the holiday in Mexico’s capital. It’s lots of fun and a very interesting time of year to visit Mexico City. We certainly recommend it!

There’s much to get excited about in 2023 with Mexico City’s Day of the Dead celebrations, parades, and fiestas being bigger and better than ever! Personally, we look forward to returning to CDMX to celebrate these many lasting cultural traditions and new Day of the Dead events found all throughout Mexico City.

💀 ¡Buen viaje amigos! 💀

Related Posts

November 2, 2022 at 6:15 PM

This post has been very helpful in planning what to do on our trip to Mexico for Day of the Dead. We had a great time!

October 13, 2022 at 5:27 AM

I am having a hard time finding information on purchase of La Llorona canal cruise. I have gone to the official website but do not see a link or WhatsApp information. Please help!

October 13, 2022 at 2:41 PM

It seems that the website has removed the information to reserve tickets using WhatsApp. Not sure why, strange. Thanks for alerting us. You will be able to purchase tickets directly at Embarcadero Cuemanco (Cuemanco Pier). Of course, just arrive early. Alternatively, I have seen La Llorona tickets also being sold on the following website. https://trajinerasxochimilco.info/la-llorona-xochimilco/ Seems they charge a few extra pesos, but you’ll have a reservation. We have not used this website before so have been a little reluctant to steer people there without having firsthand experience.

July 21, 2023 at 7:01 PM

Wow! You have done an amazing job compiling all of this information! I think you should give group tours to English-speaking tourists. We look forward to all of the festivities and going to the F1 events. Thanks for making our trip planning so much easier!

October 21, 2022 at 12:18 AM

Biggest misconception is that you need to pre order. Once you’re there you can get tickets. No worries. Same with canal.

September 26, 2022 at 1:52 PM

Wonderful info! We booked the Xochimilco canal cruise per your suggestion and paid through PayPal; sent info to company and immediately was emailed a printable ticket…thank you! Question: we are non Spanish speaking and wonder if we will be lost on this canal cruise . Thanks!

October 4, 2022 at 2:40 PM

Great to hear! And thank you for sharing your feedback regarding booking the Xochimilco canal cruise/show. This is the first year they’ve taken reservations in this way, so glad to hear it was a smooth transaction. Without Spanish, in my opinion, it is still a great overall experience going through those ancient canals at night to reach the audio/visual spectacle of the show. Sure, you may be a bit lost at some of the plot/meaning behind the show itself but much of it is dancing, lights, and sound, which you shouldn’t necessarily need Spanish to enjoy. Hope you have a great time!

October 16, 2022 at 11:05 PM

Thank you for this extremely informative post, so essential since it’s hard to find reliable information.

Just FYI, I bought tickets from https://trajinerasxochimilco.info/la-llorona-xochimilco/ , but they did not email me the tickets. Rather, the instructions on the site are to present the order number and your ID at the ticket office to redeem your tickets. We’ll get there early in case there are any issues.

October 23, 2022 at 2:33 PM

Thank you for the feedback and hope you enjoy! 🙂

October 12, 2022 at 11:19 PM

What site or link did you purchase your tickets from? I don’t seem to see anywhere on the site for buying tickets. Please help!

August 10, 2022 at 1:14 PM

This is extremely helpful for planning this year, thank you for taking the time to post this. I will probably avoid Mixquic because of the hassle it looks like to get there and back. If I went to one cemetery from your list in Mexico City itself on the night of Nov 2 to see similar candle lighting and maybe a procession, which would you recommend?

September 6, 2022 at 5:19 PM

It will really depend on which cemeteries will be open during the night hours this year to witness some of those traditions. Unfortunately last year most Mexico City cemeteries were only open during daytime hours. Assuming things are back to normal this year, try Panteón de Dolores. It’s the largest cemetery in Mexico City, holds many famous people, and is centrally located – right next to Bosque de Chapultepec. If open after dark, I’d suggest going there on the evening of Nov 2.

October 28, 2021 at 10:37 AM

Me and my brother will be there this year! Not sure if we will start at Centro or Chapultepec…anyone else have ideas? My insta is bjork.ict

October 25, 2021 at 2:41 PM

This is so helpful, thank you so much!

October 2, 2021 at 12:51 AM

Best information I have found on Dia de Los Muertos in Mexico City. Will you be there in 2021? Let’s meet-up and share more information. The evening of Saturday October 30th near the Zócalo.

My Instagram is #gringoenelparaiso

October 7, 2021 at 4:15 PM

Glad to hear this was helpful and hope you have a great time in CDMX over the holiday! This year, we will be in Guadalajara for Dia de Muertos and look forward to finding some festivities there too. But hope to get back to Mexico City soon though!

November 11, 2020 at 10:05 AM

The information presented in this writing is very true in Mexico it is customary to celebrate death and obviously relatives who are no longer there, if they are from other countries visit Mexico if possible to live an experience like that alone Remember that apart from fun there should also be a respect for tradition that should not be lost, seek to connect with your loved ones who are no longer there, get to know the country and more in a day like this, you will have a very pleasant view with the offerings and decorations but they will also taste very eica food of these dates (sweet potato, pumpkin, sugar skulls, etc …).

October 4, 2021 at 2:01 AM

Thank you! It has been difficult to find information on what will/will not be taking place. I appreciate the updated information.

October 19, 2020 at 6:06 PM

Thank you so much for this updated information! You are the one site I keep coming back to check as I’ll be arriving in MX 10/31 and want to see what events will be available! Please continue to keep us updated. Thanks!!!!

September 11, 2020 at 6:59 PM

Thank you for all this information. We are scheduled to fly into Mexico City on Oct 31 for 3 nights and will be staying in the Zócalo. I am hoping to see some of what you describe, even on a limited basis. I will be checking for updates!

February 8, 2020 at 3:29 PM

Thank you for this wonderful and informative post!! Would you be able to recommend an accessible area (via uber/bus/colectivo) to stay at that is close to these festivities, sort of more central? Thanks!!

February 10, 2020 at 3:08 PM

It’s tough to recommend one single centralized place to stay because all the festivities are scattered so widely across the huge metropolis that Mexico City is. That said, The Centro Histórico should prove to be a convenient location to both the parades and the Zocalo festivities, and other popular CDMX attractions. You could consider staying at a hotel on the Paseo de la Reforma, which is directly on the parade route. But also consider Roma, as it can be a very nice barrio to stay, has many accommodation options, and is just a short uber ride away from Centro. Hope that may help! As we continue to update this post for Día de Muertos 2020, we’ll try to add a section for some accommodation recommendations.

October 26, 2019 at 11:03 AM

Hello! Thank you so much for this article. It’s been so helpful for us. Can you tell me where I can find more info about the Coyacan celebration?

October 28, 2019 at 2:20 AM

There is more info here (in Spanish): https://centrodecoyoacan.mx/eventos/dia-muertos-delegacion-coyoacan

October 25, 2019 at 12:49 AM

Thanks so much for all those super useful information !!!! If we wanted a as traditional Dia de los Muertos experience as possible. Would you recommend doing a day trip outside of Mexico City (and if yes where) or do you think we might as well enjoy it in CDMX ? Thanks

October 28, 2019 at 2:47 AM

Mixquic is perhaps the best bet for a traditional Dia de Muertos experience, as a day trip from CDMX centro. Yet you’ll surely enjoy all the festivities in CDMX too, as there’s so much going on.

October 16, 2019 at 9:21 PM

Great article – thanks for this.

We are two couples that want to go on a Day of the Dead night cycling ride, but we cannot find any information on it. Can you assist?

October 17, 2019 at 3:34 AM

That was an official event last year. But we have not seen any official info about the night bike ride yet for 2019. We’ve seen some local online publications mention that it’ll be happening on the night of Nov 2nd. But there has been some misinformation about such events in the past, so am not certain that info is trustworthy. We’ll try to update if we hear anything further.

October 11, 2019 at 5:12 PM

Hi! I purchased tickets for La Llorona Canal Boat Ride in Xochimilco off the website linked to (Ticketmaster). When purchasing, it said I need to pick them up at Ticketmaster centers in Mexico. However, an email said I can pick them up at the venue at “Will Call”. I won’t be able to pick them at the Ticketmaster centers, as I am flying in to MX City the same day I am going to the boat ride. Do you know if there is indeed a Will Call center at the canals? Thanks!

October 12, 2019 at 2:01 AM

There is definitely a proper booth handling ticketing at the Xochimilco boat pier. So if the email says you can pick them up at Will Call, I can only assume that they will be able to handle that for you. When we went to the La Llorona Canal event last year, we did pick-up our tickets from one of the Ticketmaster centros in advance, so I cannot comment from first-hand experience about redeeming the ticket voucher onsite at the pier. Perhaps try to give yourselves a bit of extra time to sort out, if possible. Also, know that there is a Ticketmaster center nearby at the Mega Soriana Villa Coapa that remains open until 8:00 pm.

October 14, 2019 at 1:35 PM

Thanks so much! If you hear any updates on this, I would be so grateful if you’d let me know!

October 14, 2019 at 6:21 AM

Just wanted to know if you ended up picking your tickets at the canal because i’m considering buyng tickets too as well.

October 11, 2019 at 3:24 PM

Did they announce the time of the parade yet?

October 12, 2019 at 2:30 AM

The Ministry of Culture still has not officially released a time for the parade. We’ll try to update this post as soon as we hear anything. Until then, you can check their official listing of the parade (in Spanish), which we can assume they will update with the time once officially announced. They will also likely announce the times on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Cultura.Ciudad.de.Mexico

October 17, 2019 at 4:08 AM

The official parade time for 2019 has finally been announced. 1:00 pm is the start time.

October 10, 2019 at 6:26 PM

Hello! Thank you for such an informative guide. Do people in Mexico “dress up” for Halloween (Oct 31st) and Day of the Dead? As in, do you see people walking around in costumes and such? My wife would love to dress up, but she also does not want to be “disrespectful” towards the culture that encircles this wonderful tradition. Thank you so much.

October 12, 2019 at 3:15 AM

Many people dress up as catrinas. If your wife wants to dress up and fit in, dressing up as a catrina would be the best approach, and is done by visitors and locals alike. There will be many face painters on hand in the popular Muertos locations to help get her outfitted. There are some people who do dress up in other costumes, but it’s the norm and mostly by children. And this is only at festive places such as the Coyocan’s celebrations or the Zocalo. Have a great trip! 🙂

September 18, 2019 at 2:18 AM

Hi thanks for the response. I am planning to visit Mixquic cemetery on Nov 2. I am worried about getting there from Mexico City as it will take 2 hours by car. I expect the entire city will have heavy traffic jam because of the nature of the day. Are there good transportations like bus or subway? Wonder how affordable they are. Is traffic situation really bad there?

October 4, 2019 at 12:21 AM

It’s possible to get to Misquic with public transport by using the metro and bus, but it’ll take every bit of 3 hours, maybe longer depending on traffic. And there will likely be traffic. A bigger dilemma will be returning to Mexico City in the middle of the night when public transport isn’t running. I believe the first returning bus is after 4am and will likely be packed. That’s why we suggest joining one of the semi-affordable shuttles/tours, which is far more seamless, despite the 2-hour commute.

September 7, 2019 at 11:48 AM

Hello! Is there a way to celebrate our own lost loved ones, or is this experience primarily to witness the Mexican people as they carry out their tradition? Also, I’m worried that going to partake as a tourist will come across to locals negatively, as though we are commercializing their memorial to their family members. Have you felt that this was an issue, or do you have any advice on how to prevent this portrayal?

September 7, 2019 at 7:47 PM

For celebrating your own departed loved ones, (just my two cents) I think it is a beautiful idea. Such celebrations are done at home or at the cemetery, not public celebrations. So you could similarly have a private Día de Muertos celebration wherever you are staying and with your own family if they’re traveling with you. Read up on the traditions, create an ofrenda (remembrance alter), have some of the deceased favorite foods, and share stories of their lives. We have non-Mexican friends living in Mexico who follow the tradition in their adopted country to remember their loved ones. It’s a beautiful tradition that can be done anywhere, even outside of Mexico.

Meanwhile, all of the public celebrations recommended here are open for everyone to partake in. We find Mexico to be so incredibly welcoming to foreigners and most people would be delighted (not offended) that you’re showing interest in these celebrations. There shouldn’t be any negativity whatsoever to partake in, as a tourist. Most of these activities are touristic in nature, both for foreigners and domestic tourists. The parades, megaofrendas, and other celebrations are meant to be enjoyed by everyone, take pictures, enjoy. The only exception to this is visiting a cemetery. It would indeed be rude and perceived poorly to gawk or walk around taking photos. Yet if visiting with respect, there shouldn’t be any issue. You could even make some amigos and learn about someone’s family. Consider possibly bringing some gifts. Tequila can always be welcomed.

September 3, 2019 at 1:23 PM

Hi thanks for this information it is very helpful! I’m wondering if you have any more information on the international day of the dead parade (not the main parade) on the 27th? Do you know where, what time, and any information on what it is like? Thanks again!

September 7, 2019 at 10:07 PM

There will likely be more info released by the CDMX Secretary of Culture as that event gets closer. They have only officially announced the date (Oct 27th) and that it will span Polanco, Zócalo, and Chapultepec. By early October, they usually have a webpage with all the details of all the official events.

September 18, 2019 at 12:59 PM

It seems like everyone is going to the Catrina Parade rather than the main parade? have the time and location been annouce for the main parade?

August 30, 2019 at 9:58 AM

What’s the difference in between Catrina Parade and the main parade? not sure which one is worth on seeing.

August 30, 2019 at 12:51 PM

Great question! They are quite different from one another and they can each be worth attending. The Mega Proseción de las Catrinas (Catrina Parade) will be thousands of people with catrina face paint marching together down the Paseo. This is something that you can join in yourself! Just show up at least a few hours before it starts to ensure you have time to get your face painted. It’s more of a fun march to take part in, rather than a traditional parade to watch with floats.

Meanwhile, the main Día de Muertos parade, occurring the following Saturday (Nov 2), is more of a traditional parade to watch. This will have elaborate floats, dancers, big puppets, etc. (Shown in the video posted on this page.)

So go to the Catrinas Parade on Oct 26 to join in the fun. And/or go to the Muertos parade on Nov 2 to stand on the sidelines and watch the more elaborate floats and festivities pass by. Both should prove to be a good time! 🙂

August 30, 2019 at 3:42 PM

Thank you for the clarification. I’m now having a better idea on how to plan my trip.

October 1, 2019 at 8:26 AM

Thank you for the info! Love uuu!!

August 28, 2019 at 9:55 AM

Thank you for this great blog! You wrote that the dates are officially announced by the Mexican Ministry of Culture. Do you got any link, that confirms this? I want to book my flight and hotel, but I haven’t found any information about the main parade in Mexico City.

August 28, 2019 at 10:29 PM

Yes, they announced it directly on their Facebook page. Their official post about the parade is embedded in that section of this article and here is a direct link: https://www.facebook.com/Cultura.Ciudad.de.Mexico/photos/a.599332016769150/2333141883388146/

So it’s safe to book your travel arrangements. 🙂 Hope you enjoy the parade and all the Muertos festivities this year!

August 27, 2019 at 6:56 AM

It was very helpful for me to prepare for the trip during this festival. I couldn’t get information about the festival because I couldn’t speak Spanish, but the information about the ‘Catrina Parade’ was unexpected and useful. I look forward to updating information about Dead People’s Day. Thank you again.

August 28, 2019 at 10:31 PM

So glad to hear this proved helpful. That Mega Proseción de las Catrinas is expected to be bigger than ever this year! 🙂

August 20, 2019 at 10:24 PM

Absolutely fantastic and extremely informative blog post! You guys helped me out tremendously! Now organizing my Dia de los Muertos 2019 trip will be so much easier.

We will be in Mexico City form 25th until 29th and then we will go to Oaxaca for actual Dia de los Muertos. But, while in Mexico City, I will definitely do a face-painting and Procession of the Catrinas. Do you have any recommendations on where to stay on budget and be around all these events?

August 23, 2019 at 3:27 PM

So glad it’s proven helpful! 🙂

Staying in somewhere in Centro would perhaps be most central for the procession, megaofrenda, and other events. We also like staying in Roma or Condesa, which isn’t too much further away. When we were last in Mexico City a few months ago, we stayed in Centro at the Mala Vecindad Beer Hotel. If you book on hotels-dot-com or Expedia, they have rates for $30/night and it includes a good hot breakfast. Nice rooms and fun beer theme too! It’ll be pretty central to many of places you’ll want to go. So that’s our top pick, as of recent. But, really, there are many budget-friendly places to stay all over CDMX! 🙂

October 27, 2019 at 10:46 PM

Thank you for the great post! I’m wondering if the night boat ride through the canals is toddler friendly? Are the boats safe? Does it get rowdy?

October 28, 2019 at 2:15 AM

From our experience, it seemed like it would probably be okay for a toddler. Boats are safe. It doesn’t get rowdy. Our boat was filled with mostly older Mexican women sipping on atole. But there are loud noises at the performance. And just be aware that there’s no way to exit until the entire boat ride is complete. So if toddler gets cranky or bothered by load noises, you’ll have nowhere to escape to. Also, there will be periods in which no baños are available. But otherwise should be fine.

December 8, 2018 at 5:54 AM

Wow, excellent blog on Day of Dead in Mexico.

The images used are very attractive and appealing.

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Tour Día de Muertos en Michoacán 2023

Disfruta el Tour de Día de Muertos en Michoacán 2023 ; te llevaremos a vivir la magia ancestral en la zona de Pátzcuaro; experimentarás en carne propia una de las tradiciones más representativas de México ante el mundo, catalogada como patrimonio inmaterial de la humanidad.

¡La noche de muertos de celebra en todo México, pero como en Michoacán ninguno!

Aquí la muerte llena de vida los hogares, panteones y veredas, que rebosantes de altares, flores, comida y velas, manifiestan la riqueza tradicional de este estado.

Para ser parte de esta tradición nos acompañaran en un recorrido por las comunidades “Purépechas” que tienen un compromiso con la animas, para ayudarles a encontrar la luz del camino.

Altares, caminos de flores y velas anuncian la llegada de los difuntos, una celebración que distingue a Michoacán, es una fiesta de aroma, alegría y es nuestro Patrimonio de la Humanidad.

Tour 1 Noviembre 2013 Día de Muertos Michoacán

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El pueblo donde nació la Catrina de Barro, aquí disfrutarás su reconocida “Feria de la Catrina” que comienza a mediados de Octubre y finaliza a principios de Noviembre.

Es un festival lleno de música, colores, exposiciones, gastronomía típica de la región y miles de catrinas realizadas en artesanía de barro.

Desde el momento en el que comiences a recorrer Capula, irán apareciendo las distintas tiendas y talleres familiares pintados de colores, que te transmitirán ganas de comenzar a explorarlos todos.

Será el lugar ideal para llevar un hermoso recuerdo, probar la gastronomía local y disfrutar de un buen aguamiel, también conocido como sirope, chawarmishki, tlachique o miel de agave.

SAN GERONIMO PURECHECUARO

Haremos una escala en el panteón de esta comunidad ubicada a escasos 4 kilómetros de Pátzcuaro.

Este panteón es uno de lo más visitados por su gran espectáculo, en donde cientos de familias decoran con ofrendas impresionantes las tumbas de sus seres queridos, llenan de flores y velas cada tumba, colocando siempre algunos detalles que ellos en vida disfrutaban.

SANTA FE DE LA LAGUNA

Fue el pueblo que dio la principal inspiración para la realización de la afamada película  COCO de Disney  en 2017.

Santa Fé de la Laguna es el pueblo más antiguo del estado de Michocán, aquí la tradición de la noche de muertos se celebra de manera diferente, pues los altares se instalan dentro de los hogares para honrar a los seres queridos que han fallecido durante el último año.

Las ofrendas de este sitio son de las más coloridas de la región, se tapizan con cempasúchil, calaveras de azúcar y peculiares animales elaborados de dulce.

En Santa Fé de la Laguna la misma comunidad es la que se encarga de sus atracciones, aquí podrás disfrutar de artesanías y restaurantes laborados exclusivamente por las mujeres locales, quienes preparan delicias de la gastronomía purépecha ancestral como el caldo michi, la sopa tarasca, los charales, las corundas y los tamales de ceniza.

TZINTZUNTZAN

Se localiza a 17 kilómetros de Pátzcuaro a orillas del lago. Fue centro del Imperio Purépecha y primera ciudad capital de Michoacán. En el pueblo se conservan construcciones prehispánicas conocidas como Las Yácatas.

Es impresionante caminar entre su panteón tapizado por los pétalos amarillos de las flores de cempoalxochitl (flor de muertos), lleno de veladoras y ofrendas. En el cementerio de Tzintzuntzan se respira un olor a flores, incienso, velas, pan de muerto y dulces tradicionales que se colocan en las grandes ofrendas.

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Madonna termina su semana en México con Salma Hayek y un homenaje para amigos fallecidos

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Madonna concluyó una semana de conciertos espectaculares en la Ciudad de México con una velada en la que tuvo como invitada especial a Salma Hayek y en la que abundaron las emociones, desde el amor y la gratitud, hasta el dolor y la memoria de sus seres queridos perecidos por VIH-sida.

Desde que anunció que vendría a México en abril 2023, las expectativas estaban al máximo. Luego vino el accidente casi mortal que sufrió en junio de ese año por una infección bacteriana, lo que puso en duda su gira mundial. Hasta que finalmente se recuperó y retomó su Celebration Tour para festejar cuatro décadas de trayectoria.

Las entradas para sus cinco conciertos en el Palacio de los Deportes de la capital mexicana, con capacidad para 20.000 asistentes, estaban agotadas para abril de 2024 cuando finalmente llegó la reina del pop tras ocho años de ausencia y a más de 30 años de sus primeros conciertos en el país en aquella Girls Show Tour de 1993.

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Primero expresó de la importancia de la música en su vida desde que llegó a Nueva York para ser bailarina con “35 dólares en la bolsa”.

“Era muy inocente, era estúpida realmente, pero saben qué no me arrepiento de ninguna de las decisiones que tomé, todas las decisiones estúpidas también, porque me llevaron a donde estoy hoy y no cambiaría nada”, aseguró. “Mi vida dio un giro de 360 grados cuando alguien me dio una guitarra y me dijo, aprende a tocar esto y lo hice. Interpretar música cambió mi vida, espero que mi música cambie la de ustedes”.

Madonna recordó que cuando compuso su primera canción le habló emocionada a su padre para contarle de su logro, pero él le preguntó si ya había conseguido un trabajo, “¡adivinen quién le paga la renta ahora a ese (grosería)!”, exclamó.

En ese entonces Madonna no se amilanó por ese comentario de su padre, su trabajo era la música y esta primera canción la estrenó en un pequeño local apestoso llamado CBGB (la legendaria cuna de la escena punk neoyorkina), la canción era “Burning Up”, la cual interpretó tras esta introducción.

En la semana en México Madonna también había compartido que cuando era una chica que vivía en el Medio Oeste de Estados Unidos descubrió a Frida Kahlo y fue al único museo de arte que había en ese entonces en Detroit donde encontró un retrato de la pintora mexicana con el pelo trenzado y una mirada intensa.

Kahlo le dio esperanzas de sentirse integrada, de ser auténtica, al grado de considerarla su “alma gemela, musa interna, madre, animal espiritual, todo”.

Y para su último concierto se le concedió que Kahlo estuviera presente gracias al vestuario que eligió Hayek para participar en la competencia de baile de su éxito “Vogue” en el que Madonna ha tenido invitados como Ricky Martin, Wendy Guevara y Alberto Guerra.

Hayek, quien en 2002 protagonizó la película “Frida”, basada en la vida de la famosa pintora mexicana, desató la euforia en el Palacio de los Deportes al subir a la pasarela con una versión modernizada del traje típico de tehuana que solía usar Kahlo, con falda con bordados mexicanos, combinada con un corsé negro con transparencias, así como el pelo trenzado y adornado con flores.

Madonna y Hayek se dieron un largo abrazo y calificaron a los bailarines, entre los que estaba una de las hijas de Madonna, Estere, a quien Hayek le dio 10. Las divas gritaron “¡Viva México cabrones!”.

Otros hijos de Madonna participaron en el show: David Banda tocó la guitarra en varias canciones y Mercy James el piano para “Bad Girl” en la noche en la que estuvieron acompañados por cerca de una veintena de bailarines y en la que realizaron varios cambios de vestuario que reflejaban los estilos de Madonna a lo largo de los años.

En su gira Madonna ha interpretado “Live to Tell” para rendir un homenaje a “todas las luces brillantes que perdimos por el sida”, entre las fotografías que ha incluido en este homenaje hay artistas como Freddy Mercury, Keith Haring y Cookie Mueller.

Pero no fue todo, bastante después en el concierto, luego de temas como “Erotica”, “Justify My Love” y “Mother and Father” se dirigió nuevamente al público.

Madonna habló cerca de 10 minutos de lo que han significado las pérdidas y la muerte en su vida desde el fallecimiento de su madre por cáncer cuando tenía cinco años, pasando por la muerte de innumerables amigos durante la crisis del sida en los años 80 y 90, hasta la muerte de las madres de sus hijos adoptivos, igualmente por esta enfermedad autoinmune y los decesos, por otras causas, de astros contemporáneos a ella como Michael Jackson y Prince.

“La primera vez que vine a México fue para encontrar medicinas y curas, algo para salvar a mis amigos que estaban muriendo de sida, porque a la gente no le importaba”, refirió. “Fue entonces cuando dije que iba a pelear por los derechos de las personas que no tienen voz hasta el día que yo muera”.

“Es importante comprender que somos afortunados, muy afortunados, de estar vivos, de tenernos los unos a los otros … la muerte está por todos lados y a pesar de eso, a pesar de eso, esta es una celebración, celebramos la vida, el amor”, agregó antes de pedirle al público que encendieran las luces de sus celulares para interpretar “Express Yourself” en versión acústica.

La siguiente parada de Madonna será un concierto masivo gratuito el 4 de mayo en Río de Janeiro para el que se prevé que puedan asistir incluso millones de espectadores. Se ha conjeturado que esta podría ser la última gira de Madonna.

Sólo queda esperar que ese fuego que la ha mantenido caminando siga encendido.

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