The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most representative celebrations, and experiencing it in Mexico City is truly fascinating. During the last days of October and the first days of November, the capital fills with colors, marigold flowers, giant skulls, and monumental altars that pay tribute to those who have passed away.
From the traditional Catrina Parade to the nighttime boat rides through Xochimilco and the breathtaking altars in the Zócalo, there are countless ways to enjoy, learn about, and connect with this vibrant tradition. If you’re planning to visit the city, here are the best ways to celebrate Day of the Dead 2025 in Mexico City.
Every year, the heart of Mexico City bursts with color thanks to the Monumental Offering installed in the Zócalo. This open-air altar brings together artists, communities, and collectives from across the country to honor the memory of those who are no longer with us.
From October 25 to November 2, 2025, the Zócalo square will be covered with marigolds, candles, papel picado, and artistic figures representing different visions of the afterlife. The visit is free, and you can enjoy it both during the day and at night, when the lights highlight every detail.
In addition to being one of the most photographed spots of the season, the Monumental Offering showcases Mexico’s cultural diversity through its symbols and traditions.
Location: Zócalo, Historic Center
Dates: October 25 – November 2
On October 26, 2025, the streets of Paseo de la Reforma will once again fill with color, music, and elegance during the traditional Mega Procession of the Catrinas — one of the most anticipated Day of the Dead events in Mexico City.
The parade begins at 6 p.m. at the Angel of Independence and continues to the Zócalo, gathering thousands of participants with painted faces and outfits inspired by the iconic figure created by José Guadalupe Posada. The joyful atmosphere includes bands, dancers, and lively comparsas that bring the avenue to life.
Whether you join in costume or simply watch as a spectator, the Mega Procession of the Catrinas is a vibrant expression of creativity and pride that keeps this beloved tradition alive.
Route: From the Angel of Independence to the Zócalo
Date: October 26
Time: 6 p.m.
From October 30 to November 2, 2025, the Diego Rivera–Anahuacalli Museum will host the Cacao for Everyone Festival, an unmissable event for those who love history, art, and Mexico’s traditional flavors. The festival brings together producers, artists, and chocolatiers who share their passion for cacao through tastings, talks, workshops, and artisanal product sales.
Admission is free, and the event runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., allowing visitors to enjoy the museum’s different spaces at their own pace. Each year, the Anahuacalli also presents a monumental Day of the Dead altar, admired for its beauty and symbolism. It’s a perfect opportunity to savor Mexican cacao while appreciating one of the city’s most emblematic offerings.
More information: www.cacaoparatodos.mx
Location: Diego Rivera–Anahuacalli Museum
Dates: October 30 – November 2
Time: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Admission: Free
From October 3 to November 9, Xochimilco turns bright orange for the Marigold Route — an immersive experience that blends nature, tradition, and mysticism. This Day of the Dead activity takes visitors along the canals aboard colorful trajineras to discover the spiritual meaning of the marigold flower, believed to guide the souls of the departed.
The tour runs at 4:30 a.m. (to enjoy the sunrise) and 4:00 p.m. (to watch the sunset). It lasts about 3–4 hours and costs $1,199 MXN per person.
The experience includes a decorated trajinera with catrines and catrinas, an offering table, and a delicious tasting of pan de muerto, tamales de quelite, café de olla, and traditional desserts. During the journey, guests enjoy live pre-Hispanic music, storytelling about Xochimilco legends, and visits to themed chinampas such as Chinampa del Sol, Chinampa del Cempasúchil, and Chinampa Axolotl Calli, where you can see a traditional cemetery replica and even join an Aztec ball game.
Warm clothing is recommended, especially for the sunrise tour, as well as insect repellent.
Tickets are available on Boletópolis.
Location: Xochimilco
Dates: October 3 – November 9
Times: 4:30 a.m. (sunrise) and 4 p.m. (sunset)
Cost: $1,199 MXN per person
In the basement level 2 of Plaza Metrópoli Patriotismo, you’ll find one of Mexico City’s most immersive Day of the Dead experiences: A Journey to Mictlán. Available until November 17, 2025, this sensory adventure invites you to explore the nine levels of the Mexica underworld through lights, projections, and interactive effects that blend art, mythology, and technology.
The one-hour experience takes visitors along a symbolic path representing the souls’ journey according to pre-Hispanic beliefs. It’s a visually stunning and spiritual way to experience the Day of the Dead from a new perspective.
Tickets cost $390–$450 MXN, with different schedules available daily. Purchase them at fantasylab.mx/un-viaje-al-mictlan.
Location: Plaza Metrópoli Patriotismo (Basement Level 2)
Dates: Until November 17
Hours: Vary by day
Cost: $390–$450 MXN
The Day of the Dead fills the streets, the senses, and the heart. Mexico City becomes a vast stage where traditions come to life and the past meets the present in an atmosphere full of color and meaning.
Staying in the Historic Center during these dates allows you to experience this celebration from its very core. Everything is close by — the monumental offerings, parades, markets, and cultural activities that keep this vibrant tradition alive.
If you’re planning a visit, Central Hoteles welcomes you with the warmth of Mexican hospitality and the charm of our spaces. From here, you’ll be just steps away from where history and the magic of this special celebration come alive.
Travel, culture and traditions in Mexico City.
