Though Halloween is not a common celebration in Mexico, there are plenty of skeletons to be found. Held annually on November 1 (All Saint’s Day) and November 2 (All Soul’s Day), the national Dia de los Muertos holiday pays homage to those who are deceased by celebrating their life rather than mourning their death. Celebrated throughout Mexico,
Riviera Maya is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the multi-day holiday through a myriad of cultural festivities that represent not just one, but a variety of regions in Mexico.
- Xcaret: Hosting one of the largest “Vida y Muerte” festivals in the Riviera Maya, the Xcaret eco-archeological park is a must for Dia de los Muertos celebrations. From Oct 30-Nov 2, the park transforms into a celebratory haven with exquisitely decorated skeletons; a miniature recreation of an authentic Mexican graveyard, each grave traditionally adorned with gifts and candles; special performances; elaborate altars representing different regions in Mexico; cultural demonstration and exhibits; and traditional food and beverage. The park even offers complimentary face paint for guests to paint one half of their face as a skeleton (one side representing life, the other death) to immerse themselves in the celebration.
- Playa del Carmen: Following the celebrations at Xcaret, travelers can continue celebrations in Playa del Carmen on November 3 and 4. Each year, the city hosts a variety of activities including a candle light processional, dancing skeleton parade, music and traditional cuisine.
- Traditional food and drink: No Dia de los Muertos festival is complete without pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and mukbil pollo (a chicken tamale-like dish that is cooked underground). The traditional dishes can be found at many restaurants throughout Riviera Maya.
