
Xoloitzcuintle
As seen in 007: Spectre and COCO, every year on Nov. 2 we celebrate the Day of the Dead.
This is a pre-Hispanic celebration born from the culture of the Mexicas, better known as the Aztecs. They believed in life after death and that all human beings at death would go to the same place, “Mictlan,” for eternal rest, but before that, everyone had to cross nine “hells” or challenges, helped by a dog, Xoloitzcuintle, that would determine if their soul was worthy.

Cempasúchil Dress
Once in Mictlan, the souls of the dead who managed to cross had an opportunity every year to return to their loved ones on Nov. 2. Families who want to be visited by their beloved deceased put an altar that includes a photo of the deceased, their favorite food, maybe some belongings and the cempasuchil flower. The latter, created by the god of the sun to venerate true love between mortals after death, will help the deceased recognize their way back home.
This is a beautiful tradition that has grown over the years on an international level, so much so that an international Day of the Dead parade is held in Mexico City to appreciate the beauty of our culture and serve as a friendly reminder that life after death is a party and not to forget those who left. It is a beautiful way for us to think that our loved ones will return home and give us love again once a year, and the rest of the time they will be partying in the land of the dead.

Mazatlán queen

Aztec serpent
Fun Fact: UNESCO recognizes this Mexican holiday as an invaluable heritage of humanity.
This year I was able to assist as press to the Day of the Dead parade thanks to the Fondo Mixto of Mexico City. It honestly exceeded my expectations in every way — the floats, the costumes, the music, giant puppets, the colors and the energy transmitted by the more than 1,000 parading volunteers.

Maracas

Tuft
Oct. 27 at 2 p.m. the parade started at the main square, Zocalo, the heart of Mexico City. It was supposed to be a sunny day, but here you can’t trust the weather forecast or the seasons, so everybody was prepared for basically everything. There were even people in the parade with trashcans full of raincoats for the volunteers, and all the spectators had umbrellas ready. And thank God, because around 5 p.m. it started to rain pretty hard. For one moment I thought they were going to cancel or that people would start leaving — none of that happened.

Mictlantecuhtli car

Mictlantecuhtli car
I got to witness one of the biggest parties of the year. All the volunteers kept dancing, cheering, smiling at a level I couldn’t believe, and the audience was even happier, cheering, shouting, clapping. I was overwhelmed; the amount of energy and good vibes made it impossible to leave there in a bad mood.
This is definitely something I want to witness every year and is something you need to witness yourself. As a Mexican who has grown up in this culture, every year I fall deeper in love with it. Let me tell you that when you experience it yourself, you’re going to fall in love, too.
— Mariana Zenizo, account executive

Drinker

Catrina

Xoloitzcuintle mobil

Dancer

Dancer

International

Bride and groom

Monarch butterflies
Read This Next

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
May 16, 2025New Kosovo Philharmonic Opera, Ballet and Theatre Hall to Open This Year
A new opera and ballet theater in Kosovo will house four performance halls and a new public plaza in the capital city of Prishtina. As the first opera house in the Republic of Kosovo, the theater symbolizes the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage while reflecting a new identity for Prishtina, rooted in creativity and a commitment to the country’s artistic growth.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage
Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.
Daily
May 16, 2025Inkaterra Hotels Make a Peru Trip Unforgettable
Looking to plan the ultimate trip to Peru, but not sure where to start? Inkaterra is here to help. With properties in multiple cities throughout the country and various immersive itineraries, Inkaterra makes it easy for your dream trip to Peru to come to life.
Daily
May 16, 2025“Le Commandant Charcot” Will Complete Full Antarctica Circumnavigation in 2028
PONANT EXPLORATIONS will soon achieve a new world first when its Le Commandant Charcot will embark on a full circumnavigation of Antarctica, departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, from January to March 2028. This polar expedition unlike any before will journey nearly 11,200 miles of remote, uncharted coastline of the White Continent.
Sponsored Content
Explore Europe with the Best River Cruise Line this November
Experience Europe from a fresh perspective with AmaWaterways, just awarded Best River Cruise Line by Global Traveler for the third consecutive year. Step aboard, unpack once and embark on a cruise through iconic capital cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. AmaWaterways' ships, which accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offer a spacious yet intimate setting. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy exquisite farm-to-table dining; unparalleled service; and a variety of included excursions, from city tours for gentle walkers to thrilling bike rides along the rivers.
Daily
May 15, 2025Mansions, Gardens, Museums and More Await in Greater Wilmington, Delaware
Lovely any time of year, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley in Delaware shine in spring and summer, providing an easy getaway from nearby major cities like Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Baltimore; and New York City. Wind down with a stroll along the riverfront, or time your visit to enjoy outdoor and indoor sites, plus plenty of great food on these dates:
Culture Runs Deep in the Old Town of Corfu
May 2025
May 15, 20256 Unforgettable Dining Experiences Around the World
Daily
May 14, 2025Hotel Van Zandt Review
eFlyer Reviews
May 14, 2025eFlyer News
May 14, 2025National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions Enters European River Cruise Market with 2026 Itineraries
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions recently announced its inaugural European river cruises, with bookings open for its 2026 sailings on May 20. Travelers can choose from two options, each focusing on different destinations and activities.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
eFlyer News
May 14, 2025Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines Launch Daily Service Between Seattle and Tokyo
Alaska Airlines launches a new global connection between the Pacific Northwest and Japan with a Hawaiian Airlines-operated flight. The new service between Seattle (SEA) and Tokyo (NRT) begins Sept. 12.
ShareThis