Every yr, I rejoice Oaxaca Day of the Dead in my most favourite metropolis in Mexico and on this article, I’ll share with you all one of the best issues to do and native insider suggestions!
📮 Hello Trisha!! I discovered your Oaxaca solo journey publish and I’m glad I did! I like that you’re so trustworthy with all of your suggestions. I actually cherished that publish so muchas gracias!
While studying that publish of yours, I noticed that you just even have a yearly day of the lifeless tour, et voila! This is why I’m reaching out to you at this time as a result of I wish to be part of your tour!
Do you continue to have any slots? I attempted to name your workplace however they stated it’s full! If you don’t have extra slots, I’d be blissful to only meet you there.
But please, give me extra concepts on what day of the lifeless in Oaxaca is like. Thank you for all of your suggestions!!!
Ronald Davis, United States
Hi Ronald,
Thank you in your curiosity in becoming a member of my day of the lifeless tour! Since you wrote to me personally, I’ll ensure there can be a slot for you.
This yr, I’m solely personally main one tour group however I’ve three different teams spearheaded by my native employees.
Anyway, we’ll speak privately about logistics however even if you’re not becoming a member of my tour, beneath is a useful Oaxaca day of the lifeless information.
I’m positively open to assembly in Oaxaca. I’m arriving on October twenty seventh and I hope to fulfill you! Good luck and let me know if in case you have any questions!
Scared to journey alone? Why not be part of my journeys?
Change the way in which you journey and spend your cash on journeys that matter – journeys that you’ll always remember. My group journeys are extremely targeted on accountable journey, supporting native communities, and avoiding the compulsory touristic circuit.
🕯️ Join my Oaxaca day of the lifeless tour!
Every yr, I host 12 vacationers from totally different elements of the globe to expertise day of the lifeless in Oaxaca. I deliver them to native houses, cemeteries, and naturally, all of us meet my native Oaxacan mates!
You don’t need to be a solo feminine traveler — my group is admittedly various!
This is an all-inclusive Oaxaca day of the lifeless tour (apart from flights). For 5 days, we’ll discover the town collectively and have one of the best DOTD expertise!
🌼 Visit the Marigold fields in Oaxaca (Oct twenty fifth)
Every yr, on October twenty fifth, Cultivos El Viejo permits vacationers to go to their marigold fields to take photos. This can also be the identical day that the marigolds are despatched to the town.
This marigold discipline is about an hour away from Oaxaca City heart and you need to go by yourself. If you want a driver and a non-public automotive, don’t hesitate to contact me and I’ll suggest some.
If you’re going by yourself, take the bus from Autobuses Halcón Terminal Bustamante in Oaxaca City. Look for busses going to Zimatlan.
There isn’t any charge to go to the sector however a donation is inspired. Please ensure to be a accountable photographer and don’t step on the flower discipline. Just comply with the native directions on the place you’re allowed to take photos.
💀 Get your day of the lifeless make-up (Catrina)
You’ve in all probability seen numerous day of the lifeless make-up on social media. I actually put together for this yearly as I would like my make-up to be distinctive!
The Catrina make-up, impressed by a satirical Nineteenth-century drawing by artist José Guadalupe Posada, has turn into an iconic a part of this annual celebration.
From dwelling in Mexico, I’ve requested many Oaxacans and Mexicans concerning the traditions of the Catrina make-up: “is it disrespectful to wear the make-up if you are not Mexican?”
I all the time get combined solutions however my trick is to not put on them in cemeteries or when visiting native houses as some folks could also be delicate (and have stronger emotions) about its cultural significance.
You can ebook your personal session with my make-up artist. Just be sure you have a photograph of the make-up you want. She can do something!
🎊 Comparsa in Jalatlaco
A comparsa is a vibrant and colourful occasion that has a shocking show of music, dance, and custom that’s tremendous enjoyable and obligatory to hitch in Oaxaca!!
The comparsa takes place on November 1st and 2nd annually to coincide with Mexico’s annual Day of the Dead festivities.
It is an extension of this custom – a full of life parade that includes elaborate costumes and masks in addition to stay music and dancing.
As you make your means via the streets throughout the comparsa, you’ll be surrounded by intricate floats displaying larger-than-life skeletons wearing vivid colours or donning conventional clothes.
Comparsas in Oaxaca is totally different yearly however the one I constantly go to is the comparsa in Jalatlaco neighborhood.
Tip: Comparsas are often crowded and cramped so it’s finest to not deliver an enormous bag, cameras, or different valuables.
⚰️ Cemeteries to go to in Oaxaca (1st or 2nd Nov)
Many readers of this weblog ask me if it’s okay to go to a cemetery as a foreigner/vacationer. Yes, you’ll be able to go to cemeteries however be very respectful.
In my expertise, cemeteries inside the metropolis are used to foreigners however there are nonetheless totally different sorts of individuals there so I simply maintain it low.
When in cemeteries, all the time keep in mind to keep up a respectful distance and maintain conversations low. This isn’t a spectacle however a significant non secular and familial event.
Never interrupt a non-public ceremony or take pictures of individuals or their altars with out asking for permission first. Some households could also be open to sharing their traditions and even invite you to take part, however others could favor to maintain their observances personal.
If you’re taking images, ALWAYS ASK FOR PERMISSION FIRST and don’t use flash. Below are a number of the cemeteries you’ll be able to go to in Oaxaca City:
1. Xochimilco Cemetery
The website is thought for its charming setting and vibrant group spirit. It gives a barely much less crowded surroundings in comparison with the Panteón General however isn’t any much less wealthy in custom and tradition.
2. Panteón General
Also recognized merely because the General Cemetery, the Panteón General is likely one of the oldest and most conventional cemeteries in Oaxaca City.
3. San Agustín Etla
Known for its Muerteada procession, San Agustín Etla is a neighboring city with a full of life Day of the Dead celebration.
4. San Felipe Tejalápam
Another location recognized for its Muerteada, the cemetery on this city is a gathering level for locals collaborating within the procession.
5. Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán
This city is known for its two cemeteries, the Panteón Viejo and Panteón Nuevo, each of that are focal factors for Day of the Dead celebrations.
6. Santa María Atzompa
Known for its pottery, the city’s cemetery usually options ceramic decorations and crafts. The group is small however welcoming, and the cemetery turns vibrant and communal throughout the Day of the Dead.
7. Teotitlán del Valle
This Zapotec village is famend for its handwoven rugs and textiles. This is the primary cemetery I visited in Oaxaca however it’s about an hour away from the town.
Travel to Oaxaca with all my suggestions within the metropolis. This Oaxaca map contains over 600 locations, divided into totally different classes!
☠️ Sand tapestry (tapetes de area)
“Tapetes de arena” interprets to “sand tapestries” and is a standard artwork kind that takes on particular significance throughout the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca.
These intricate designs are made utilizing coloured sand and different pure supplies like seeds, flower petals, and sawdust.
These artworks usually are not solely visually hanging but in addition function a non secular providing to the departed souls, inviting them again to the world of the dwelling for a quick time.
Many native church buildings show these sand tapestries as a part of their Day of the Dead celebrations. Santo Domingo Church usually has elaborate tapetes de area.
Areas just like the Zocalo (foremost sq.) and different public gathering spots usually function large-scale tapetes de area created by artists and group members.
In addition to being displayed in public areas and church buildings, tapetes de area can usually be present in cemeteries, including to the ambiance throughout Day of the Dead vigils.
🎨 Art exhibitions throughout Oaxaca day of the lifeless
During the Day of the Dead festivities in Oaxaca, artwork exhibitions usually discover themes surrounding loss of life, the afterlife, remembrance, and Mexican tradition and traditions.
Apart from tapetes de area and ofrendas, additionally, you will see papel picado exhibitions which is a Mexican people artwork type of paper-cutting, and particular designs are sometimes created for the Day of the Dead and exhibited.
Below are some museums and artwork galleries that maintain particular exhibitions throughout day of the lifeless in Oaxaca:
Oaxaca’s many artwork galleries usually function particular exhibitions throughout this season. Keep an eye fixed on areas like La Curtiduría, Espacio Zapata, or any of the quite a few galleries alongside Alcalá Street.
🪭 Cultural performances throughout day of the lifeless
You will see cultural dances and music everywhere in the metropolis even if you’re not trying! It’s not unusual to encounter smaller performances or impromptu musical classes whereas strolling via the streets throughout Oaxaca Day of the Dead.
Given the importance of the Day of the Dead in Oaxacan tradition, you’ll discover that the town is very vibrant with creative expression throughout this time.
The historic theater of Teatro Macedonio Alcalá usually hosts musical performances, performs, and dance occasions, a few of that are themed across the Day of the Dead.
Of course, Oaxaca’s foremost sq. is commonly the location of free performances, together with music, dance, and typically even theatrical performances associated to the Day of the Dead.
If you need a smaller conventional efficiency, go to Plazuela del Carmen Alto. This smaller plaza is one other widespread venue for public performances and stuffed with native life!
Community Centers in neighborhoods like Jalatlaco, Xochimilco, and even San Felipe del Agua usually have community-organized performances.
🙋 Muerteada in Etla: is it well worth the journey?
The “Muerteada” is a novel and full of life custom that takes place in varied communities within the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, significantly in San Agustín Etla and San Felipe Tejalápam, throughout the Day of the Dead i nn Oaxaca.
In essence, Muerteada is a form of mock funeral procession. Participants, usually males however more and more girls too, costume up as conventional characters together with loss of life figures, brides, grooms, and different roles related to mortality and the afterlife.
The procession is often accompanied by a brass band taking part in full of life music, making a festival-like ambiance that contradicts the somber nature of a funeral.
The thought is to mock loss of life and present that it’s not to be feared however celebrated as part of life. Participants usually interact in playful antics, dance, and work together with the spectators, spreading cheer and laughter.
Once you’re already in Oaxaca, you’ll hear about folks raving about going to Etla however personally, I’ve all the time had dangerous experiences doing this journey.
First, it’s so removed from the town and it’s nearly unattainable to return while you need until you might have your personal automotive. My group and I all the time rent a bus for the muerteada so we are able to really depart on our personal.
On my first time doing this, I signed up for a tour and the tour took ceaselessly! The place was crowded, there weren’t numerous meals and drinks, and so forth.
I do hope to search out an ideal muerteada tour in Etla (or no less than have the ability to design one) and add it to my group journeys. I simply really want to go deep and journey there outdoors of the day of the lifeless dates.
📸 Best Oaxaca Day of the Dead picture spots
While many streets in Oaxaca are photogenic throughout day of the lifeless, there are particular spots that stand out.
Please word that each one road decorations can be eliminated by November 2nd and on November third, the entire metropolis can be so naked and can seem like that no occasion occurred.
My trick is to all the time rejoice first and ensure to do an entire morning of images on or earlier than November 2nd. Here are some spots (with corresponding areas):
Zócalo: The foremost sq. is commonly embellished lavishly for the Day of the Dead and serves as a hub of actions, making it a main location for images.
Andador Turístico (Alcalá Street): This pedestrian walkway is commonly adorned with decorations and lined with altars, musicians, and road performers.
Jalatlaco: This neighborhood is thought for its colonial structure and cobblestone streets, offering a quaint backdrop for Day of the Dead festivities.
Xochimilco: Another historic neighborhood the place you’ll be able to seize the spirit of the celebration towards a backdrop of charming old-world streets.
Matamoros Street: Not so standard road in Oaxaca however this space has galleries, artisan retailers, and is additional colourful throughout day of the lifeless.
Calzada de la República: This lengthy avenue usually options creative installations and is a parade route for a number of the Day of the Dead processions.
Calle Garcia Vigil: This road is often lively and shade, making it a superb place for candid photographs and road images.
Templo de Santo Domingo: The church and surrounding plaza usually function elaborate altars and tapetes de area (sand tapestries), providing distinctive picture alternatives.
✈️ Travel Guide to Oaxaca day of the Dead
Where to remain throughout Day of the Dead in Oaxaca
If you haven’t booked your lodging but, now could be the time to take action. Since I’m going to Oaxaca day of the lifeless yearly, I ebook all lodging for me and my group 1 yr prematurely!
Check on lodge reserving platforms after January. You will see that there aren’t any availability anymore for the resorts as a result of tour firms block them even with out paying for them.
Sure, you’ll be able to nonetheless discover lodging after May or June however count on them to be costly and unsuitable in your style.
Your flights can come later, however be sure you safe lodging in Oaxaca City first as that is crucial (and probably the most tough to safe).
🛏️ The finest areas to remain in Oaxaca City are Oaxaca Centro and Oaxaca Historic Center. Make positive to examine the tackle on Booking.com earlier than you pay.
Oaxaca day of the lifeless dates
The actual date of Oaxaca day of the lifeless is October 31 to November 2. However, Mexicans all the time prefer to rejoice early.
The decorations for day of the lifeless in Oaxaca are already up by October twenty fifth. If you arrive the town on at the present time, you will notice how Oaxaca transforms right into a burst of shade.
Actually, on common days, Oaxaca is already vivid and colourful, however on the day of the lifeless, they go the additional mile.
This is one thing very nice to see as you’re going to get to witness all of the locals filling their houses and companies with cempasúchil (marigold), the official flower for the day of the lifeless.
As for me, I’m going for the day of the lifeless in Oaxaca yearly on fastened dates: October 27 – November 3. I’ve many mates there and all the time have a tour, so I guarantee I’ve time for everybody.
Flights to Oaxaca
Oaxaca City has a global airport. However, there usually are not many direct flights from the USA, Canada or Europe – you need to fly into Mexico City when you’re coming from one other nation.
During day of the lifeless in Mexico, there can be 3-4 flights each day from Mexico City to Oaxaca City. Alternatively, it’s also possible to simply ebook a flight to Mexico City and take a bus to Oaxaca.
The bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca prices $50 USD and lasts for six hours. This is a less expensive however longer possibility. You can take the evening bus so that you’ll save on lodging.
💀 Oaxaca day of the lifeless journey suggestions
November 2nd is the worst day to fly out
Through the years of celebrating day of the lifeless in Oaxaca, I all the time booked November 2nd as a departure date, and it’s all the time a foul thought!
November 2nd is the final day of the celebrations, and it’s such a painfully crowded day. Bus terminals can be full, visitors inside the metropolis can be crazier, and there’s typically be extra folks leaving Oaxaca on the second.
Extend your journey and discover Oaxaca City by yourself. Leave Oaxaca City after the 2nd – it will likely be cheaper and fewer tense!
Take the bus from Mexico City
Flights for day of the lifeless in Oaxaca are often costly, particularly when booked later. If you resolve to go final minute, you’ll be able to ebook a flight to Mexico City after which take the bus to Oaxaca City.
The bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca City is comfy and solely prices $50 USD. There is just one in a single day bus that leaves each evening at 10:00 PM.
This VIP bus has beds, TVs, USB charging stations, and plenty of extra. If you don’t take the evening bus, you’re going to get a daily bus (reclining seats, not bus beds).
It is wiser to take the evening bus as you’ll save on lodging. There can also be lesser visitors at evening. If you journey throughout the day, count on this bus journey to be 9 hours as a substitute of 6.
🚌 Use BusBud to ebook your bus tickets prematurely.
Combine actions and issues to do
Don’t simply get drunk and get together each evening! Include a Oaxaca day of the lifeless tour like Hierve El Agua petrified waterfalls – one of the crucial visited pure wonders on the planet.
Oaxaca can also be recognized for mezcal so squeeze in a mezcal tour. Here, you’re going to get to go to an agave farm outdoors of Oaxaca City, owned by an area household.
Other issues to do in Oaxaca City embody meals excursions, visiting the Ethnobotanical backyard, or going to Monte Alban archaeological website.
Lastly, a textile tour in Oaxaca is a should! Oaxaca is thought for its textiles; most Mexican souvenirs you see across the nation are from Oaxaca. Which completely means you should buy them right here for a less expensive worth.
Put extra price range on meals than lodging
Oaxacan delicacies isn’t just one of the best in Mexico however it’s well-known everywhere in the world. Since most of my travels are very food-forward, I positively like to put extra price range on meals than lodging.
You can survive in Oaxaca by simply consuming road meals ($2 USD per meal) since their road meals tradition is world-class. Most of them are featured on Netflix’s Taco Chronicles!
If you wish to expertise nice eating, I additionally do no less than 2 tasting menus for the week (from $100 USD). Oaxaca City has numerous eating places with nice tastings.
Don’t give attention to the town heart
During your day of the lifeless tour in Oaxaca, discover different neighborhoods as nicely. Most vacationers focus closely on the town heart (though don’t get me flawed, Centro Historico is gorgeous!).
However, if you’re spending a number of days in Oaxaca, you may wish to take a look at Jalatlaco and Xochimilco neighborhoods as nicely.
These 2 neighborhoods all the time have events at evening and they’re actually nice to see throughout the day. Here, you will notice probably the most colourful streets of Oaxaca!
Travel with a pal: or if you’re alone, I can introduce you to some folks!
Day of the lifeless in Oaxaca is best shared with mates. Although visiting by yourself and making mates whereas staying in a hostel isn’t unattainable, it’s nonetheless finest to journey right here with family and friends!
If you’re touring alone, you’ll simply discover mates, however solely if you’re outgoing and open to creating mates.
If you’re a little introvert and wish to really feel secure whereas having fun with the day of the lifeless in Oaxaca, be part of my tremendous cool tour group!
24/7 nightlife in Oaxaca City
You’ll really feel FOMO at one level as a result of there are such a lot of occasions throughout the week of day of the lifeless in Oaxaca. I’ve gone via this yearly – decide your battles!
I noticed that I all the time needed to go to each single occasion however it’s bodily exhausting! The advantage of that is which you can play each evening by ear – you’ll all the time discover one thing to do even when you resolve to go away your lodge at midnight.
🚫 Safety in Oaxaca throughout Day of the Dead
Oaxaca is comparatively secure throughout day of the lifeless. However, like every competition everywhere in the world, count on Oaxaca to be crowded so petty theft is widespread.
Here are some security tricks to keep in mind:
- Do not stroll after 9:00 PM, particularly if you’re alone. Always take the yellow taxis or use the Didi app.
- Secure your belongings and as a lot as doable, simply use a fanny pack and don’t deliver an excessive amount of stuff while you’re out.
- Take out money throughout the day however the ATMs in Centro are all the time out of money throughout the week. It’s higher to withdraw on the airport.
- Do no take (or purchase) medicine in any respect prices. Period.
- If you aren’t in a position to be part of my day of the lifeless tour, e-mail me and I’ll introduce you to some native mates. Use the contact kind on the menu of this weblog.
⁉️ Oaxaca day of the lifeless FAQ