Day of the Dead — one of the biggest holidays in Mexico. It is celebrated on November 1-2. According to beliefs, it is believed that on these days the souls of deceased relatives visit their home. In houses, improvised altars are built, decorated with marigolds, on which portraits of the dead, offerings, caramel skulls and candles are placed. On the second day, relatives visit cemeteries, where they decorate the graves with flowers and lay out treats. Processions and parades take place throughout Mexico.
The Day of the Dead is included by UNESCO in the list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Of course, the most vibrant celebrations take place in the capital, Mexico City. But there are several towns in Mexico where the Day of the Dead is celebrated most solemnly and according to the classical canons of this holiday. In addition, these are “magical towns”, which received such a title from the federal government for their important contribution to the cultural heritage of the state and for their loyalty to traditions. Day of the Dead — a good reason to get to know their sights and identity.
Aquismon, State of San Luis Pfromoso
This part of the Huasteca Potosina region has its own Xantolo festival, which begins on the first of November. On this day, residents erect altars and light candles next to the portraits of the dead. The celebrations last all night. And on November 2, local residents bring offerings to the graves of their relatives. The celebrations are so colorful and original that many call Xantolo the best version of the Day of the Dead in all of Mexico.
Residents of San Luis Pfromoso believe that the souls of the dead remain among the living throughout November. Therefore, before the souls return to their world, on the last day of the month the festival is resumed, and offerings of fruit are placed on the graves, which the souls will need during the journey back.
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Pátzcuaro, Michoacan state
On the island of Janitzio, the Purépecha communities place altars and candles on the graves of their relatives every year. On the nights of November 1st and 2nd, locals board their canoes to sail to the islands. The action takes place by candlelight, which gives it a special mystery: boats decorated with flowers slowly float along the water surface of the lake, accompanied by the flickering of candles and solemn, quiet chants.
The from celebration is closed to the general public, and upon returning to the town of Patzcuaro, you can enjoy offerings.
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Real del Monte, State of Hidalgo
On the outskirts of the town, every year they celebrate the Magic Horror Festival, telling legends about this place and the dead miners. From the last days of October until the 2nd of November, costume parades take place here on weekends, and the fun continues almost around the clock.
Real del Monte is famous not only for its lavish Dia de los Muertos celebrations, but also for its festive gastronomy, especially its famous pulque bread.
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Tlaxco, State of Tlaxcala
In this corner of Tlaxcala, on November 1-2, the Festival of Eternal Life (Festival de la Vida Eterna) takes place, during which participants compete in the beauty and originality of altars and offerings to the dead.
Local artisans show off their talents by decorating the illuminated streets with unusual Day of the Dead items. The entire city is decorated with sculptures, skulls, and images of Katrina.
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Mixquic, Mexico City
Near the suburb of Mexico City called Tlahuac is the town of San Andrés Mixquic, one of the most visited in the country on the Day of the Dead. Skull sculpture competitions take place here, mariachi music plays in the streets, and everyone is treated to offerings.
Lush costumed processions last almost a week, attracting crowds of travelers. In addition, it is very easy to get here from Mexico City.
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