3 Amazing Cities to Celebrate Día de Muertos in Mexico

This post is all about the absolute best cities in Mexico to Celebrate Día de Muertos.

Día de Muertos is a holiday widely celebrated in Mexico from October 31 to November 2. It is a time when families and communities remember loved ones who have passed. It’s at this time that locals believe the veil between the spirit world and the living is vulnerable, allowing the deceased to travel back. This cultural celebration is a unique blend of indigenous and Catholicism. The result is a beautiful and colorful display of rituals and traditions. It’s a rich experience to witness, with so many interesting elements that culminate in honor of ancestors.

Its recommended to plan a few extra days on the front and back end of your trip to catch the array of celebrations that often take place before and after the official holiday.

Here’s what you’ll see:

Altars (ofrendas): You’ll see altars in homes and cemeteries. The altars are elaborately decorated and adorned with photographs of the deceased, as well as candles, beautiful marigold flowers, sugar skulls, mementos, and the favorite foods and drinks of the deceased. These altars are meant to welcome the spirits of the departed back to the living world.
Pan de Muerto (bread of the dead): You’ll see this sweet, round bread all around Mexico as the holiday approaches. It’s shaped to depict bones and it is used as an offering and a treat for people to enjoy.
Marigold flowers: One of the most stunning elements of this season is the appearance of the bright orange flowers. They are used as guide sports back home and will be adorned on altars, graves, restaurants, shops, just about everything.
Calaveras (Sugar Skulls): This is another sweet symbol of the holiday. Depictions of skulls, in all colors and sizes are on display and present throughout the holiday.
Visits to Cemeteries: One of the most emblematic points of the holiday is to gather at the gravesites of loved ones. Families spend time cleaning, and decorating these spaces in preparation for their return. Families will bring food, drinks, and music as they spend time remembering and celebrating their loved ones.

The Best Cities to Experience Día de Muertos

Mexico City

As the capital of Mexico, Mexico City is a top location to witness the larger-than-life celebration of Día de Muertos. While Día de Muertos is typically a family affair, it has become a city-wide Mexican tradition. The city will be overflowing with events, markets, and festivals that mark the occasion. The highlights of the festivities are:

“Desfile de Día de Muertos” (Day of the Dead Parade) which will be held on November 4, starting at the Zocalo.
The HUGE ofrenda in the zocalo
Avenue Reforma between Chapultepec Park and the Angel of Independence is a great place to catch the Alebrije sculptures hosted by Museo de Arte Popular.

Oaxaca

Dia de Muertos is one of the best times to visit the city of Oaxaca. It’s been lauded as the cultural capital of Mexico and is home to Mexico’s most culturally ethnic state. It’s a colorful, charming city with a vibrant art scene and some of the best cuisine the country offers. The historic centro of the city completely transforms for this time-honored tradition. Since Oaxaca is a much smaller city than CDMX, the celebrations feel more authentic and spiritual.

RELATED VIDEO : 3 Days in Mexico City

Here’s what not to miss:

Madna Comparsa: this is the biggest parade of the event that takes place in the historic center
Head to the zocalo: this is a great base to start to catch firework displays and local events
Join a Dia de Muertos tour
Visit the cemeteries of Xoxocotlán and Atzompa. Since this is principally a family affair, its recommended to be respectful.
Muerteada: this party takes place near Etla (40min drive). This party turns into an all-night parade with bands, costumes, dancing, and of course mezcal.

Patzcuaro

Celebating is de Muertos in Patzcuaro is a once in a lifetime experience. Patzcuaro is located in the state of Michoacan, about an hour ride from the capital, Morelia. This small town is also a Pueblo Magico which is a tourism destination that recognizes small towns that offer magical qualities and experiences for visitors. Patzcuaro is known for its indigenous Purepecha and Tarasco traditions, making this festival one of our favorites we’ve had the opportunity to experience.

RELATED VIDEO: Dia de Muertos Celebrations in Michoacan

Here’s what to see:

Janitzio Island: head to Muelle San Pedrito dock where you can take a boat to the island. Visitors and locals make their way to the cemetery for
Danza de los Pescadores (Dance of the Fishermen): This ‘dance’ is performed by Butterfly Fishermen whose name originated from the shape their nets make.
The Candlelit Night of the Dead (Noche de Muertos en Pátzcuaro) takes place on the night of November 1st. A boat procession heads to Janitzio Island, families light candles graveside and create a sea of light.
Just hang out at Plaza Grande. Aside from the Artisan Market, the plaza is filled with performances like the traditional folk dance – Danza de los Viejitos (Dance of the Old Men).

Dia de Muertos is a beautiful part of the Mexican culture to see. While it’s celebrated throughout the country Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Patzcuaro are 3 truly unique places to witness this time-honored tradition.

If you can’t make it to Mexico, celebrate and remember your loved ones at home. These decorations will help you create the vibe you’re going for.