Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a special time in Mexico. Celebrations take place over several days from October 31 to November 2, but related activities take place before and after these dates. Different villages have different customs around the celebration, and may observe different dates.
The common theme is that the dead are welcomed home with incense, flowers – marigolds and cockscomb – and special foods, to visit with their loved ones, and be remembered – it’s a celebration of life. Everywhere in Mexico celebrates Dia de Muertos, but Oaxaca is renowned for its elaborate celebrations.
Brad and I stayed at Casa Linda. It’s a peaceful and beautiful home, about 8km northeast of the city of Oaxaca, hosted by Linda Hanna, who is very knowledgable and passionate about Oaxacan art. On 31 October, we visited the Panteon General San Miguel, Oaxaca.
Ofrenda & sand painting in an artist’s home
Cementerio Nuevo, Xoxocotlan, Oaxaca