Party with the dearly departed at El Diá de los Muertos

Something about the phrase El Diá de los Muertos - that's "The Day of the Dead" in Spanish - simply rolls of the tongue with the kind of mysterious energy that this Mexican cultural capitol exudes. Held on All Saints' Day (1 November) and All Souls' Day (2 November) according to the Catholic calendar, this Aztec-influenced festival commemorates the memory of deceased family, friends, and ancestors.
Throughout this Unesco world heritage site, the candlelit streets overflow with parades, colourful markets and impromptu parties, along with costumed revellers in wildly macabre masks. And do not skip a trip to a panaderia, where a mind-blowing array
of morbid sweet treats will be on display. Try a sugar-spun coffin, or the eggy, yeasty pan de muerto (bread of the dead).

Seeking a true local Oaxacan experience? Head to one of the nearby cemeteries, where families spare no effort in their quest to create the most extravagantly decorated gravesite, replete with elaborate flowers and the eerie glow of countless candles. With plenty of singing and dancing, some graveside chicken mole (or another favourite dish of the deceased) and a shot or two of tequila, it is an experience that's as moving as it is magical.
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