How to Experience the Magic of the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate life and death, you should definitely consider visiting Oaxaca, Mexico during the Day of the Dead festival. This ancient and colorful tradition is one of the most authentic and spiritual expressions of Mexican culture, and Oaxaca is the best place to witness it. 

In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, including when and where to go, what to do and see, and how to respect the local customs and beliefs.

What is the Day of the Dead?

Day of the Dead (or Día de Muertos in Spanish) is a festival that honors the memory of deceased loved ones and celebrates their return to the world of the living. It is based on the indigenous belief that the souls of the dead can visit their relatives and friends once a year, during the last days of October and the first days of November. The festival is a fusion of pre-Hispanic and Catholic traditions, and UNESCO recognizes it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Why Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico that is known for its rich and diverse cultural heritage, its delicious and varied cuisine, and its stunning natural beauty. Oaxaca is also home to some of the most vibrant and unique Day of the Dead celebrations in the country, as each of its eight regions and hundreds of villages has its own way of observing the festival. Oaxaca City, the state capital, is a charming colonial town that hosts many events and activities related to the Day of the Dead, such as art exhibitions, concerts, parades, and workshops. Oaxaca is also a great base to explore the surrounding communities and experience their different customs and rituals.

When to Go?

The official dates of the Day of the Dead are October 31, November 1, and November 2, but the preparations and festivities begin days before and continue for a few days after. The main events in Oaxaca City start on October 25 and end on November 22. However, different villages may celebrate on different dates, depending on their local traditions and calendars. For example, some villages observe the Day of the Dead on October 27 and 28, while others do it on November 3 and 4. It is advisable to check the schedule of events and activities in advance and plan your itinerary accordingly.

What to Do and See?

There are many things to do and see during the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, both in the city and in the countryside. Here are some of the highlights:

• Visit the altars: One of the most important and beautiful aspects of the Day of the Dead is the creation of altars, or ofrendas, that are dedicated to the deceased. The altars are decorated with candles, flowers, photos, food, drinks, and other items that represent the personality and preferences of the departed. The altars are meant to welcome and honor the souls of the dead, and to provide them with sustenance and comfort during their visit. You can find altars in homes, businesses, schools, churches, and public spaces, and they are usually open to visitors. Some of the most impressive altars are displayed in the Zocalo, the main square of Oaxaca City, and in the Santo Domingo Church and Cultural Center.

• Join the comparsas: Another fun and festive element of the Day of the Dead is the comparsas, or street parades, that take place in different neighborhoods and villages. The comparsas are composed of groups of people dressed in costumes and masks, often representing skeletons, devils, animals, or mythical creatures. They dance and play music along the streets, accompanied by brass bands, drums, and fireworks. The comparsas are a way of celebrating life and mocking death, and they invite spectators to join them and have a good time. Some of the most popular comparsas are the ones that take place in the Etla Valley, about 30 minutes from Oaxaca City, on November 1.

• Explore the cemeteries: The most solemn and sacred part of the Day of the Dead is the visit to the cemeteries, where the families and friends of the deceased gather to pray, sing, and share stories and memories. The cemeteries are transformed into a spectacle of light and color, as the graves are adorned with candles, flowers, and offerings. The atmosphere is both festive and respectful, as people celebrate the lives of their loved ones and communicate with their spirits. Some of the most famous cemeteries to visit during the Day of the Dead are the ones in Xoxocotlan, Atzompa, and San Felipe del Agua, all within a short drive from Oaxaca City.

How to Respect the Local Culture?

Day of the Dead is a deeply meaningful and personal tradition for the people of Oaxaca, and it is important to respect their culture and beliefs when visiting. Here are some tips to be a responsible and respectful traveler during the Day of the Dead:

• Ask for permission before taking photos or videos of altars, comparsas, or cemeteries, especially if there are people involved. Some people may not want to be photographed or disturbed during their private moments.

• Dress appropriately and modestly, especially when visiting cemeteries or churches. Avoid wearing costumes or makeup that may be considered offensive or disrespectful, such as sugar skull masks or face paint.

• Do not touch or take anything from the altars or the graves, as they are sacred and personal items that belong to the families and the deceased. If you are offered food or drink from an altar, accept it graciously and thank the person who offered it to you.

• Do not join a comparsa or a cemetery visit unless you are invited or accompanied by a local guide or friend. Some villages may welcome visitors to participate in their celebrations, while others may prefer to keep them private and intimate. Always follow the local etiquette and customs, and do not interfere with the flow or mood of the event.

• Do not drink alcohol or use drugs during Day of the Dead, as they may impair your judgment and behavior, and cause trouble or offense to others. Day of the Dead is not a party, but a spiritual and cultural celebration that deserves respect and reverence.

Conclusion

Day of the Dead in Oaxaca is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will enrich your understanding and appreciation of Mexican culture and history. It is a celebration of life and death, of joy and sorrow, of tradition and creativity. It is a celebration that invites you to connect with yourself, others, and the spirit world. If you are planning to visit Oaxaca during the Day of the Dead, make sure to book your flights, hotels, and tours well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. Also, make sure to follow the tips and recommendations in this blog post, and enjoy the magic of the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico.

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