The Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos in Spanish) is a holiday celebrated mainly in Mexico and by people of Mexican heritage (and others) living in the United States and Canada.

The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and relatives who have died. The celebration occurs on the 1st and 2nd of November, in connection with the Catholic holy days of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day which take place on those days.

Traditions include building private altars honoring the deceased, using sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed, and visiting graves with these as gifts.

Observance of the holiday in Mexican-American communities in the United States has become more important and widespread as the community grows numerically and economically.

Many people believe that during the Day of the Dead, it is easier for the souls of the departed to visit the living. People will go to cemeteries to communicate with the souls of the departed, and will build private altars, containing the favorite foods and beverages, and photos and memorabilia, of the departed. Even Tequila!

The intent is to encourage visits by the souls, so that the souls will hear the prayers and the comments of the living directed to them. Celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed.


When visiting Puerto Vallarta during late October through November 3rd, you will encounter processions to public alters and the local cemeteries. While this is traditionally a private family event, many alters are set up on the Rio Cuale Island are free to view by the public and should not be missed.  -  Cameras are not appreciated. As a tourist, please treat it with respect!


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