Day of the Dead - November 1

The celebration of the "Day of the Dead" is an event you won't want to miss if you're ever in Mexico around Halloween. The best way to describe this Mexican holiday is to say that it is a time when Mexican families remember their dead, and the continuity of life. It is not a morbid occasion, but a very festive time. November 1 and 2 are Mexico holidays. Families spend the night of November 1 in the cemeteries with the spirits of their dead loved ones. Hence, schools are closed on November 2.

On the evening of November 1, about 7:00 pm, we joined in a promenade through the streets of old town. Before that hour, as we arrived at the Plazuela Machado, you could hear the bells ringing from the cathedral. These bells had been ringing all day signifying the arrival of the spirits of the dead. It was a very festive atmosphere as we awaited the hour to begin the promenade which lasted about an hour.

Here are are a few pictures and videos we took of the evening. We hope the short video clips can give you a feel for the event. Enjoy!

This is one of many alters set up in the Plazuela. This rather large alter seemed to be generic, maybe in honor to all the dead.

This is a video of a Mexican lady serving the food offered on the alter to the dead.

As we begin the promenade, these were some of the dancers in the crowd.

The promenade begins

The crowd follows behind the band.

A mule pulled a cart full of beer (loaded with Pacifico of course) through the streets of old town. A Mexican man was busy handing out free beer to all in the crowd.

The beer being served along the way. Total chaos but no problemo!

The thirsty crowd reaching for a beer.

Greg finally gets himself a beer!!

A couple of alters to the dead we viewed along the way.

Lots of festive costumes, music and dance.

Strange characters in costume on stilts in the crowd.