Mexico City once again transformed its streets into a vibrant tribute to the dead, as thousands gathered for the tenth annual Day of the Dead parade. The event, now a decade-long tradition in the capital, brought together roughly 4,000 performers organized into 14 themed groups, accompanied by 12 elaborate parade floats that wound through the city’s main avenues.
This year’s procession paid special homage to some of Mexico’s most cherished cultural figures, including beloved singer-songwriter Juan Gabriel, celebrated novelist Juan Rulfo, and stars from the golden age of Mexican cinema, a period roughly spanning the 1930s through the 1950s that produced some of Latin America’s most iconic films and actors.
As is customary for the holiday, many attendees painted their faces as “Catrinas”—elegant skeleton figures dressed in fine period clothing that have become the unofficial symbol of Day of the Dead celebrations. Originally a satirical illustration created over a century ago, the Catrina has since evolved into a widely embraced icon representing the holiday’s unique blend of reverence and festivity.
Day of the Dead, observed each year on November 1st and 2nd, honors deceased loved ones through colorful altars, marigold flowers, and family gatherings rather than mourning. UNESCO has recognized the tradition as part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage.
Want to see more scenes from this year’s celebration? Check out the original video report from Telemundo.
Source: Catrinas, música y tradición: miles celebran el Día de Muertos en CDMX (telemundo.com).
Image: Team at Carnaval.com Studios.