Mexico's Day of the Dead [2023]: What to Expect, Tips & FAQs

The Day of the Dead in Mexico is one of the most important celebrations in Mexican culture. The celebration honors the memory of lost loved ones and those who have passed away, giving them respect and thanks for their lives. The festive season attracts many tourists and visitors, especially young females, who celebrate by wearing bright colors and intricate designs.

With this guide on “The Day of The Dead in Mexico City,” you’ll learn what to expect and how best to prepare for the festival.

First up, you should understand what this festival is all about. Let me take you through the traditions and meanings of The Day of the dead in Mexico next.

What Is the Day of the Dead in Mexico?

Throughout the years, Mexican people have celebrated The Day of the Dead to honor and remember those who have passed away. Locals know this day as “Día de Muertos,” meaning “Day of the Dead” in Spanish. This festival takes place on November 1st and 2nd each year and is an integral part of their culture.

During this time, families gather in cemeteries to pray for their deceased relatives, decorating their graves with bright colors, candles, and mementos. They prepare delicious dishes, including traditional favorites like the sweet bread known as Pan de Muerto and a marigold flower dish called Cempazuchitl.

They spend the day enjoying music and dancing, commemorating the lives of loved ones that are no longer with them.

Remembrance altars, or “Enormous ofrendas,” are also set up in the city’s central plaza and many streets, adorned with marigolds, candles, and photos of the deceased. The Day of The Dead is a time for families to come together, celebrate, and remember lives that have passed away. It’s a unique and spiritual experience that will stay with you forever!

Moreover, this beautiful custom is believed to bring the dead closer to the living. Celebrations are also held in most parts of the country.

What Happens After All the Traditions Are Done?

After the traditions of the Day of the Dead in Mexico City have been observed, the celebrations kick up a notch, resulting in various festivities like parades, parties, and even a traditional Mexican wrestling match! These activities provide entertainment for all ages.

The celebration is incredibly enticing for young adults looking to fully explore and immerse themselves in Mexico’s culture!

You can expect live music, dancing, food stalls, DJs playing music from Latin America, and special performances by folkloric dancers at these events.

It’s a great way to spend the last few days of the year surrounded by family, friends, and locals! And remember to check out some of Mexico City’s famous markets for traditional trinkets, souvenirs, and gifts to take home with you.

Why Should You Consider Visiting Mexico on the Day of the Dead?

The Day of the Dead in Mexico is a great time to visit the city and experience all the festivities. This time of year, you can expect many unique activities and events open to tourists and locals.

There’s something unique and magical about being able to commemorate loved ones who have passed away while also spending quality time with family and friends. It’s an incredible opportunity to experience Mexico’s culture and traditions while exploring its vibrant cities.

Exciting attractions such as museums, ancient pyramids, and other cultural sites are open today. Suppose you’re looking for a unique experience. In that case, celebrating the Day of the Dead in Mexico City is a perfect choice!

5 Popular Celebrations and Festivals to Enjoy

I hope you are ready to have fun! In honoring the dead, this city comes alive! Some of the most popular Day of the Dead activities include:

Historical Center’s Parade

The Parade and contest can be considered the main event of the day of the dead celebrations in Mexico City. It’s a colorful parade featuring traditional and contemporary characters known as alebrijes, oversized skull heads, and more.

“Calaveras de Azúcar”: Sugar Skulls Festival

The sugar skulls festival is held annually in Xochimilco, a borough of Mexico City. During this event, families and friends come together to create colorful sugar skulls and offer them as gifts to deceased relatives.

Cempasúchil Festival 

This festival is one of the oldest celebrations in Mexico City. It takes place in the neighborhood of Paseo de la Reforma. It’s a unique event that showcases marigold flowers in particular, as it’s believed that the smell of these flowers can attract the spirits of deceased loved ones.

Catrinas Procession and Fair

This separate parade from the main parade is a great tourist experience as anyone can march and participate in the procession. You can expect to find traditional clothing, colorful masks, and decorations as people walk through the streets of Mexico City.

Night Walk in Bosque Chapultepec

This is a colorful festival with music, Mexican traditions related to the special day, and aroma. Candles are lit to invite the dead and their spirits to the celebration. It’s held in the evening at the Chapultepec Forest, and it’s a top-rated event for locals and tourists alike.

Tips for Making Your Visit Memorable

Dress for the Occasion!

Wear bright colors such as orange and blue, popular choices during this festive season. Bring along decorations, too!

Learn Commonly Used Spanish Phrases

Make an effort to familiarize yourself with commonly used Spanish phrases on the Day of the Dead. It will help you interact with locals and won’t go unnoticed. Typical expressions include “Feliz Día de los Muertos” which means “Happy Day of the Dead!” and “disfruta el Día de los Muertos,” meaning “enjoy the Day of the Dead.”

Bring Along an Offering to Honor the Deceased

Your offering could be food, drinks, or candles. It’s a tradition to leave something for the dead, so remember to include this in your plans.

Arrive Two Hours Early at the Parade

The parade is a popular event and can get quite crowded. You want to attend the festivities, so make sure you arrive early!

Avoid Long Queues at Cantrina Face Painting

Face paintning is a famous Day of the Dead activity in Mexico City, often attracting long lines. Arriving early can help you avoid this problem!

Be Respectful at All Times

Remember that the Day of the Dead is a serious event that should be respected. Don’t take pictures without permission or pick up or touch any decorations or offerings people brought there.

Plan to Stay in Centro if Visiting Mixquic Cemetery

Stay closer to the cemetery if you’re planning to visit it. This popular tourist destination can get quite crowded, so planning ahead is best. A scheduled bus trip would be the best option to get there.

Expected “Day of the Dead” Events for 2023

• Night of the Witches (noche de brujas) - October 31
• Day of the Innocents (deceased children) - November 1
• Day of the Dead main celebrations - November 2
• Other festivities and events - November 4-5

FAQs About The Day of The Dear in Mexico

How is The Day of the Dead Different from Halloween?

The Day of The Dead is a traditional cultural event celebrated for years in Mexico. It marks the lives of deceased loved ones and is a time for families to pay tribute to them. On the other hand, Halloween is a commercial holiday celebrating supernatural creatures and horror-related themes.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Documents?

No, you don’t need any special permits or documents to attend the Day of the Dead events in Mexico. However, checking with your hotel or tour operator in advance is best for any specific requirements. 

Learn more about the best places to stay in Mexico City before your trip so that everything is planned ahead of time.

What Should I Wear for The Day of The Dead?

Be sure to dress appropriately, as this is a solemn event. You should wear brightly colored clothing, which is customary for the event. You may also want to wear decorations, such as face paint or masks, to honor the dead.

What Can I Expect from the Festivities?

The Day of the Dead celebration mixes traditional and modern events. Expect to find plenty of music, dancing, street performances, colorful decorations, and offerings created by locals to honor the deceased. Many people also participate in a procession through the streets of Mexico City.

Are There Any Age Restrictions?

No, there are no age restrictions for attending the Day of the Dead events in Mexico. However, some events may not be suitable for younger children due to the somber nature of the festivities.

Are There Any Special Safety Precautions I Should Take?

Yes, it’s crucial to stay aware of your surroundings and follow all safety guidelines when attending special events in Mexico for these festivities. It’s also wise to always carry your passport with you, just in case. 

Plan for a Fun-Filled Vacation in Mexico

Planning and researching the customs of the Day of the Dead in Mexico is essential if you’re planning to visit Mexico during this memorable holiday.

With Pilot, you can plan and make prior arrangements to stay well-organized and enjoy a fun-filled vacation in Mexico.