Day of the Dead celebrations begin in late October and carry over into November. The holiday itself is November 2nd. And, even though many people seem to think differently, it’s not just a Mexican version of Haloween.
This fascinating holiday pays homage to those who’ve passed on, carrying on centuries-old traditions that date all the way back to Aztec times.
Interested in seeing first-hand just how deep and moving this holiday is? Head to Mexico to see for yourself. Here are the seven best places to celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico.
Best Places To Celebrate Day Of The Dead
How do these rankings work?
1. Mexico City
Despite being the capital city of Mexico, the first Day of the Dead parade was only just held here in 2016. It’s a pretty easy entry point for tourists looking to celebrate Day of the Dead while still enjoying the chance to tour the city.
Despite being fairly new in terms of the actual parade, Mexico City offers one of the biggest band Day of the Dead celebrations in the country. If you have time, make it out to the suburb of Mixquic to witness the procession to the local cemetery.
2. Pátzcuaro
In Pátzcuaro, a municipality in the state of Michoacán, indigenous people head to the shores of the Pátzcuaro Lake. With a candle placed on the bow of each boat, they paddle over to Janitzio Island to hold an all-night vigil in a cemetery.
Michoacán is also pretty famous for the Day of the Dead food they sell on the streets. If you’re there, you can’t miss the chance to try the famous pan de muerto as well as the cheese-stuffed poblano peppers.
3. Oaxaca
Oaxaca is one of the most well-preserved cities in Mexico when it comes to culture. It’s one of the few modern cities where you can still feel a strong presence of native culture, which makes Day of the Dead celebrations here especially impressive.
Participate in a sand tapestry competition or take part in an all-night procession that’s more carnival-like than religious and sombre. Make sure to visit a local market as they’re some of the most colourful and vibrant in the region.
4. Guanajuato
The massive altar that the city of Guanajuato sets up at the local university is one of the most impressive sights to see in all of Mexico, making it one of the best places to celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico.
In terms of Day of the Dead traditions, the altar at Guanajuato is probably one of the best if you’re interested in taking photos to share with the rest of the world.
Wait until nightfall in order to watch as it changes under the flickering light of hundreds of candles.
5. San Luis Potosí
The indigenous people of San Luis Potosí put on one of the most unique Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico. While they call it Xantolo, they participate in all of the normal traditions such as sugar skulls, skeletons, and marigolds.
However, on top of all of that, they also throw day-long parties in the town square beginning in October. It’s actually one of the most tourist-friendly places for Day of the Dead celebrations as they traditionally create welcome arches for travellers.
6. Guerrero
The best Day of the Dead celebrations are usually ones that feature lots of brightly-coloured skulls, delicious food, and lovely marigolds. In Guerrero, they do things a bit differently.
Here, they celebrate the deceased by participating in something called the Dance of the Devils. You’ll witness a group of people dressed as devils stomp through the streets of Cuajinicuilapa.
While it might sound eerie, it’s one of the best Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico simply because it’s so unique.
7. Aguascalientes
In Aguascalientes, the Day of the Dead turns into a whole week of festivities. Here, they celebrate a week-long Festival of Skulls, which culminates in one of the biggest parades in the entire country.
Head here to witness the entire festival and stay straight through until the end to marvel at the massive floats and skull figurines that walk the streets along the Avenida Madero.
