Day of the Dead Parades in Mexico City
Each year, Mexico City becomes a vibrant stage for Day of the Dead. From community-driven processions to large-scale productions, these parades celebrate tradition through music, costumes, symbolism, and the powerful figure of the Catrina—transforming the streets into a living tribute to memory and identity.
Day of the Dead parades in CDMX are more than visual spectacle—they are a public expression of culture. Thousands of participants step into the streets dressed as Catrinas, Catrines, and Calacas, creating a moving mural of tradition that invites locals and visitors alike to celebrate with respect, creativity, and pride.
Each year, the Mega Procession of the Catrinas becomes a central event for Day of the Dead in Mexico City. This celebration is not government-subsidized, yet it has earned a special place in the hearts of attendees.
The procession aims to honor Mexican traditions, preserving the legacy of Day of the Dead in the face of modern influences—while allowing the community to express the tradition in a bold, contemporary, and inclusive way.
One of the most exciting parts of the Mega Procession is its creative diversity. Each contingent brings a distinct visual language, blending tradition with modern culture and community representation.
- Classic Catrinas inspired by José Guadalupe Posada.
- Balloon Fashion Catrinas, with outfits made entirely of balloons.
- Batucada Catrinas, accompanied by vibrant percussion.
- Star Wars Catrinas, blending tradition with popular culture.
- Other themes include floral fashion, pre-Hispanic culture, and the inclusion of the LGBTTI community through Exotic Catrinas.
This inclusive and colorful parade offers something for everyone—whether you come for the aesthetics, the cultural symbolism, or the collective energy that takes over the city.
Inspired by James Bond, the International Day of the Dead Parade has become a modern tradition in Mexico City. Although the official call for participation has not yet been announced, the event is expected to take place on Saturday, November 2.
In 2023, the parade featured contemporary dancers and traditional dancers selected from hundreds of applicants. The route typically begins in Chapultepec Forest and ends at the Zócalo, offering a spectacle of color, music, and tradition. This event celebrates Day of the Dead as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and is a major attraction for both locals and tourists.
Stay tuned for the official call for participation and get ready to enjoy the best of Mexican culture at this highly anticipated parade.
From Reforma to Bellas Artes, from Chapultepec to the Zócalo, these routes transform the city into a moving altar—one that honors the past while celebrating the creativity of the present.
If you are visiting CDMX during this season, plan ahead, arrive early, and let yourself be carried by the energy of the city—because in these streets, tradition walks alongside you.