Celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico City: Top Events You Can’t Miss

sbordatyr6
Sep 3, 2024
3 min read

If you’re visiting Mexico City during this season, you're very lucky! Let me tell you why! Mexico City comes alive during the Day of the Dead season, offering a wide array of cultural, gastronomic, and artistic events that celebrate the lives of those who have passed. From vibrant parades, to delicious food festivals, 2024 promises to deliver unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike. Here are some of the must-see events this year.

Mega Procession of Catrinas 2024

Join the iconic Catrinas as they take over Paseo de la Reforma in a spectacular celebration of life and death. This year, the procession will be held on October 27. Spectacular costumes, dancing, and music will fill the streets, offering a lively homage to those who have passed. Participants are encouraged to dress up in their best Day of the Dead attire, and for those without a costume, professional makeup artists will be available to transform you into a beautiful calavera. This is a free public event, open to all.

Festival of Pan de Muerto and Chocolate

Indulge in one of Mexico's most delicious traditions at the Pan de Muerto and Chocolate Festival, taking place on October 26 and 27. Held at the Churubusco Convention Center in the Coyoacán neighborhood, this festival is a must for anyone who loves sweet treats. More than 100 exhibitors will offer a variety of Pan de Muerto and hot chocolate to enjoy, making it a paradise for food lovers. The festival runs from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and entry is free.

Monumental Alebrijes Parade

On October 19, be sure to catch the Monumental Alebrijes Parade, one of the most unique events of the season. Giant alebrijes—fantastic, colorful sculptures—will make their way from Mexico City's Zócalo to Paseo de la Reforma. These towering figures, created by Mexican artisans, can reach heights of up to 2.60 meters. After the parade, the alebrijes will be displayed along Paseo de la Reforma until November 5. The parade begins at noon, and this is a free event.

Artisanal Festival of Coffee, Chocolate, and Pan de Muerto

For food lovers, this is another event you won’t want to miss. The culinary celebration takes place in the Roma Norte neighborhood on October 19 and 20, from noon to 7:00 PM, bringing together around 40 exhibitors. For just $50 pesos, you can taste a variety of Pan de Muerto paired with hot chocolate or coffee.

Canals of Xochimilco: Day of the Dead Journey Aboard a Trajinera

For an unforgettable November 2nd, set sail on a trajinera and drift through the enchanting canals of Xochimilco, surrounded by chinampas adorned with vibrant orange cempasúchil flowers. This mystical experience runs from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM and offers a feast of traditional treats, including handmade quesadillas, vegan tamales, and esquites, in a festive kermes-style meal.

Along the way, you'll participate in an interactive pre-Hispanic planting workshop, and harvest crops from the local fields and prepare your own fresh salad. As the evening unfolds, enjoy pre-Hispanic dances, legendary storytelling, and a cozy bonfire in the heart of the chinampa.

Whether you're drawn to the cultural spectacles, delicious treats, or colorful displays, Mexico City offers something for everyone during the Day of the Dead. This is a time to remember loved ones, celebrate life, and immerse yourself in rich Mexican traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of this season in 2024!