Oaxaca Day of the Dead 2025: Best Festival Guide to Dia de Los Muertos

Celebrating the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca has been on my to-do list for a long time. I’ve been to Mexico City five times, including multiple month-long trips, absolutely love Mexican culture, and I’m a big-time Halloween fan.

When the idea of a Oaxaca Day of the Dead trip came up, it felt like the perfect fusion of everything I love—vibrant colors, meaningful traditions, and just a hint of the supernatural (plus a little mezcal here and there 😏).

I spent four incredible days in Oaxaca making the most of everything this holiday has to offer, and you better believe it’s something absolutely everyone should experience. If you’re planning a trip for the 2025 Day of the Dead, I’ve got all the details you need to make your experience unforgettable.

Día de los Muertos History: What is the Day of the Dead?

Let’s ground ourselves in a little bit of history here. Día de los Muertos is no ordinary holiday, and it’s not Halloween. It’s a beautiful blend of ancient indigenous traditions and Spanish Catholic influences. The holiday dates back to the Aztec era, when people celebrated life and death with offerings to loved ones who had passed on.

Fast forward to today, and it’s a time to honor and reconnect with departed family members through ofrendas (altars), food, and marigold flowers (known as cempasuchil – you’ll see these for sale everywhere in Oaxaca), which are believed to guide spirits home. Plus, a little partying because we’re celebrating lives well lived, right?

How Is the Day of the Dead Celebrated?

In Oaxaca, parades and celebrations take over the city, in a fascinating blend of spirituality and epic street parties. Here are some things you can expect to see:

• Ofrendas (Altars): Families and local artists create intricate altars filled with photos, mementos, candles, and pan de muerto (bread of the dead covered in sugar – you should absolutely get one every day).
  
  Each altar is adorned with marigolds, whose vibrant orange petals symbolzize the fragility of life and create a path for spirits to find their way back. There are numerous stunning ofrendas in the city that you’ll see as you explore and walk around. It’s pretty incredible how artistic this holiday is.
  
  
• Parades: Oaxaca’s parades (comparsa) are legendary, with people dressed as Catrinas (the iconic skeleton figure), musicians playing lively music, and massive crowds celebrating through the streets. I have about 1,000 videos from this trip that I never want to delete (including my friend accidentally being slapped in the face by a giant skeleton 😂).
  
  
• Face Paint & Flower Crowns: You will find an infinite amount of street vendors selling marigold crowns and necklaces, and offering to do your La Catrina (skeleton) face paint. I absolutely loved mine and, in my opinion, it’s a very fun way to support the local economy.
  
  
• Animal Guides (Alebrijes): These animals guide you in the spirit world, and you’ll find them for sale all over Oaxaca City. We bought three little ones for my boyfriend’s niece and nephews as souvenirs.
  
  
• Cemetery Tours: Visiting cemeteries during Día de los Muertos is a pretty unique experience, but I would recommend going with a guide (more on this later!). Families gather by gravesides, lighting candles and sharing the favorite foods and drinks of the departed. The atmosphere is both respectful and joyful—it’s not uncommon to see mariachi bands or picnics happening alongside heartfelt moments.

💡 Pro Tip: Watch Disney’s Coco before your trip! We watched it a few days before we left and it gave me a much better understanding of and appreciation for the holiday.

Is Day of the Dead Better in Oaxaca or Mexico City?

I absolutely love Mexico City, and a trip there should be very high on your to-do list. While both cities celebrate Day of the Dead, the real home is in Oaxaca. Día de los Muertos completely takes over the city and you feel it with every breath.

This is where you’ll find the big time parades, street festivals, statues, outfits and face paint galore. Plus, the food scene Oaxaca is next level (hello, mole and mezcal).

If you can swing it, I’d recommend Oaxaca hands down (but make sure you eventually make it to CDMX for a tour of the pyramids or Lucha Libre before you leave).  

Day of the Dead Festival Schedule

When Is Day of the Dead Celebrated?

Día de los Muertos officially spans October 31 to November 2, but in Oaxaca city, the celebrations start a day or two before and continue about a day after.

According to tradition, the gates to the spiritual realm open at midnight on October 31 and the spirits of children can rejoin their families for 24 hours. The spirits of adults can do the same on November 1, and everyone is welcome on the second. 

No matter what day(s) you’re there, you’ll find celebrations. When I went, the big parades were on days 2 and 3. 

What are the best things to do in Oaxaca during the festival?

There’s no shortage of activities, and honestly so much to look at that if you just wander into town you’ll find plenty  to do. Here were some of my highlights that I would strongly recommend:

• Wander the Streets – Okay, I know this sounds vague but Oaxaca is a beautiful city and walking through the street will expose you to shops, art galleries, parades, mezcalerias and more. You honestly can’t go wrong by heading towards the Zócalo Oaxaca in the center, and winding your way out through the streets from there.
  
  
• View as Many Ofrendas/Sand Paintings as You Can – As you walk through Oaxaca, you’ll find beautiful altars and unbelievably detailed sand paintings dedicated to Day of the Dead. They’re spectacular to look at and it’s an integral part of the holiday experience. There are also many art exhibits dedicated to the sand paintings and they’re worth the line.
  
  
• Do a Little Shopping in the Markets – There are lots of shops and markets throughout Oaxaca. Mercado Benito Juarez and Mercado 20 Noviembre are major ones near each other, but you’ll find many popups as you walk around that sell art, jewelry, mezcal, clothes and more.
  
  
• Explore the Art Galleries – Oaxaca is actually quite well-known for its art scene, especially print art, and there are many art galleries throughout the city that you can stop in. Just type in “art gallery” or “Galería de arte” into Google Maps and explore from there.
  
  
• Get Your “Catrina” Face Paint – You don’t have to do this, but I loved it. I got mine done around 2pm and it lasted all night. Plus multiple people on the street asked me where I got it done. Pro-tip, I asked the incredibly talented woman who did mine to skip the paint on my eyelids and only use eyeshadow. It still looked great and it was much easier to wash off.
  
  
• View the Parades – Once it hits early evening, the parades will start, and you’re going to want to watch them. There’s music, outfits, face paint, gigantic skeleton art sculptures, and more. Watch them, walk in them, and generally enjoy them.

What’s the Parade Schedule for Day of the Dead?

Oaxaca hosts multiple events throughout the week, and they are spectacular. Picture traditional costumes, lots of music, plenty of dancing and even fire-blowing (I watched this from very far away). There’s no single festival guide, but here’s the unofficial/official schedule:

• October 31: Pre-festival parades kick off in neighborhoods like Xoxocotlán.
• November 1: The Comparsa de Catrinas takes over downtown Oaxaca with costumes, floats, and live music. This starts around 5.
• November 2: Parades continue or you can visit the cemeteries with a tour to witness the spiritual heart of the holiday.

💡 Pro Tip: Arrive a little early to grab a spot for parades – you can pop into one of the many shops or art galleries while you wait. And don’t forget your camera—marigolds, painted faces, and colorful costumes make for stunning photos.

Best Day of the Dead Cemetery Tour

While you can do a cemetery tour on your own, I would recommend going with a guide. hey’ll be able to explain the traditions and the culture and make sure you’re following the right, respectful traditions. This is a late-night experience so be ready, but midnight is the time to be there! There actually aren’t that many cemetery tours yet, but I think it’s nice because you get a more local experience vs big group tour.

💡 Tour Recommendation: This tour comes with a traditional dinner of tamales and coffee and takes you through the cemetery. It’s a great, well-rounded experience

Where To Stay in Oaxaca: Best Boutique Hotels

This is the part I did wrong on my trip. We booked too late and with the massive popularity of Day of the Dead, I ended up staying ~20 minutes outside the city. While this was doable and taxis were abundant, I would have much preferred to be near the city center.  Here are the hotels I would book next time:

Luxury Option: Otro Oaxaca

If you’re looking for top-tier comfort and unbeatable views, Otro Oaxaca is the place to be. It’s a new, 5-star option right in the city center from Marriott (and we love earning Marriott points!). With a pool to cool off in, a rooftop terrace perfect for watching the parades, and a stunning view of the cathedral, this is the ultimate spot to indulge in Oaxaca’s. Check out the latest prices and availability.

High-End Elegance: Hotel Palacio Borghese

The name is not wrong here – this hotel literally looks like a palace. Plush pillows, four poster beds, a beautiful courtyard – it’s hard to beat. This boutique Oaxaca hotel sits right in the historic center, within walking distance of all the major sights. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, and the service is top-notch—think personalized recommendations and warm hospitality. Check out the latest prices and availability.

Mid-Range: Quinta Real Oaxaca

If you want a stay that feels like Oaxaca, Quinta Real Oaxaca is it. This 16th-century convent-turned-hotel is packed with charm—think beautiful courtyards, stone archways, and colonial architecture.

The location is perfect—right in the middle of the action, so you can step outside into the Dia de los Muertos festivities, then escape to the peaceful, elegant surroundings when you need a break. Bonus: there’s a gorgeous pool, perfect for unwinding after a long day of parades and mezcal. Check out the latest prices and availability.

Budget-Friendly & Cozy: NaNa Vida

Nana Vida is proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to stay somewhere really nice. It’s stylish, fun, and packed with local Oaxacan art. The courtyard is a great place to chill after a long day, and the location puts you right in the mix without breaking the bank. Check out the latest prices and availability.

Best Restaurants and Bars in Oaxaca: My Custom Google Map!

First of all, you should be eating street food every chance you get (just without cilantro or any vegetables without a skin). My personal favorites for street food are:

• 🌽 Esquites: Delicious corn + cheese + mayo + spice (+ramen if you want it!) combo. Just trust me.
• 🌮 Suadero/Pastor Tacos “con cebolla, sin cilantro, por favor“: Hot, delicious tacos, with onion, without cilantro

Beyond that, there are some pretty spectacular fine-dining restaurants in Oaxaca that are worth a reservation. My personal favorite was Cobarde. The food was excellent (small plate style) the cocktails were delicious, and it has a stunning view of the cathedral that can’t be beaten. 

For mezcal, you can stop in pretty much any bar, but Tres Hermanas is great for late nights. It’s a hole in the wall that’s cash only, but has great straight Oaxacan mezcal and mezcal cocktails. 

I’ve put together a list of my favorite restaurants and bars here. Please enjoy it!

What Food Should You Try in Oaxaca?

🌸 Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead)

If you see this sugar-dusted bread at a bakery, buy it immediately. Pan de muerto is fluffy, slightly sweet, and often has hints of orange blossom or anise. It’s meant to be shared with family and placed on ofrendas, but realistically, you’re going to want one just for yourself.

🌮 Tlayudas (Oaxacan Pizza)

Tlayudas are basically a giant, crunchy tortilla loaded with refried beans, quesillo, avocado, and your choice of meat (tasajo is my go-to). You’ll see these everywhere, and they’re perfect for a late-night bite after a long day of parades and mezcal. My boyfriend had one with mole sauce that was pretty impressive.

🍫 Hot Chocolate & Tamales

Oaxacan hot chocolate isn’t like the powdered stuff you drank as a kid (though I honestly love tiny, dehydrated marshmallows). It’s made with real cacao, cinnamon, and sometimes chili, then whisked until it’s thick and frothy. Grab a cup from a market and pair it with a tamale (wrapped in banana leaves or corn husks) for the ultimate breakfast.

🥃 Mezcal (Because, Oaxaca)

Look, you have to try mezcal while you’re here—it’s basically a requirement. Unlike tequila, mezcal is smoky, earthy, and best enjoyed slowly (sip it, don’t shoot it). Order a tasting flight at a mezcalería and chase it with sal de gusano (worm salt) and an orange slice.

What Else Can You Do in Oaxaca? 

Oaxaca is more than just Día de los Muertos. It’s narrow, colorful streets, art galleries and markets, history and mezcal. One of my favorite parts of the trip was a morning I spent grabbing tamales for brunch and wandering the streets, bopping in and out of markets. If you have extra time, there are plenty of cultural gems in the city to explore:

Best Oaxaca City Cultural Activities

• The Oaxaca Cathedral: This gorgeous cathedral is right in the city center and conveniently located near where the parades take place. I was blown away by stunning white interior. It’s free to enter.
  
  
• Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca: Set in a former monastery, this museum offers a deep dive into Oaxaca’s rich history, from pre-Hispanic artifacts to colonial treasures. Plus, the botanical garden next door offers nice peace in a busy city. I went here the day after the parades. You can buy a ticket at the door, but you can skip the line if you go to the kiosk by the front entrance!

Best Oaxaca Day Trips 

If you have time, you should explore beyond the city to enjoy some of Oaxaca’s stunning natural, historical, and boozy highlights. Here are my top picks:

Mezcal Tasting at a Mezcalería

Oaxaca is renowned for mezcal, and trying this smoky agave spirit at the source is a must. Mezcalerías typically offer tastings, where you’ll learn about the artisanal production process and try a variety of styles and accompaniments. One Oaxacan bar I went to served us dried cranberries as a palate cleanser, which I had never heard of before!

Hierve el Agua

Monte Albán

What I Wish I Had Done Differently

Even though my trip was incredible, there are a few things I would have done differently to make my experience even better:

• Book Accommodations in Advance: We ended up staying 20 minutes outside the city because I waited too long to book. While taxis were abundant, I would have loved the convenience of staying closer to the parades and festivities in the city center. At one point, I needed a nap (because I’m human and can’t do it all), and had to crash in my friend’s hotel room for an hour.
  
  
• Avoid Flying Viva Aerobus (or Pay to Pick Your Seat): I learned the hard way when three of us got bumped off our flight, even though we paid full price. If you’re flying Viva Aerobus, pay to select your seat – or honestly, try to avoid this airline altogether.
  
  
• Leave Room in Your Suitcase: Oaxaca’s markets are full of stunning souvenirs, from vibrant textiles to colorful, playful alebrijes. I overpacked and didn’t have enough space for everything I wanted. That said, I still managed to snag some cloth napkins for myself and a beautiful scarf for my mom!

FAQs for Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

Is Oaxaca Safe?

Yes, Oaxaca City is generally very safe for tourists, even during the bustling Day of the Dead festivities. The city thrives on tourism, especially during the holiday, and there’s a strong police presence. Of course, you’ll want to exercise basic precautions like keeping an eye on your bags and avoiding poorly lit areas late at night. I wandered the streets and joined several crowded street parties with no problem. 

When Should I Book My Trip?

For Day of the Dead, book your accommodations months in advance (we did not, and we paid the price 😂). Hotels and Airbnbs near the city center fill up quickly, and staying in the heart of Oaxaca is key to enjoying the parades and festivities. It’s ideal to book by the summer if you’re planning for 2025.

What’s the Weather Like During Day of the Dead?

It was warm during the day and a little chilly night. As always in Mexico, I recommend layers. 

What Should I Pack for Day of the Dead?

Bring comfortable walking shoes (the streets are cobblestone), layers for cooler evenings, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a sturdy bag for all the souvenirs you’ll want to bring home (like alebrijes or mezcal).

Does Uber Work in Oaxaca?

Technically, yes, Uber works in Oaxaca, but don’t rely on it during Día de los Muertos. When I tried to use it there was zero availability. Taxis, on the other hand, are safe, abundant, and affordable. Just confirm the fare before you get in (most rides in the city center cost between 50-100 pesos). 

Once you’re in, walking is the best way to explore the city center, especially during the festivities when many streets are pedestrian-only. 

Do You Dress Up in Costumes for Day of the Dead?

Nope, it’s not Halloween and traditional costumes aren’t part of Día de los Muertos for visitors, but dressing up your face with Catrina-style face paint is highly encouraged. You’ll find plenty of street vendors offering beautiful designs. Pair it with a marigold crown or necklace for the full effect—it’s a fun way to celebrate while supporting local artists.

Can You Visit Cemeteries Without a Guide?

While it’s possible, I recommend booking a cemetery tour – a guide can provide valuable context and ensure you visit respectfully. Some cemeteries, like those in Xoxocotlán or San Miguel, are particularly famous for their stunning displays of candles and marigolds. You will still enjoy exploring them on your own, but a tour is a good idea.

Is it Safe to Eat Street Food in Oaxaca?

In my experience, eating the street food was completely fine, but I follow some standard rules. Nothing without a skin and it has to be served hot (no cilantro, absolutely no fresh fruit). 

Can You Drink the Water in Oaxaca?

Nope. Ice in restaurants is okay, but otherwise, you need to drink filtered water. Don’t worry, you can buy it at any corner store.

Can I Use Credit Cards in Oaxaca CIty?

Most restaurants and shops in central Oaxaca accept credit cards, but it’s smart to carry pesos for markets, street vendors, and tips. ATMs are widely available, but avoid using them at night or in isolated areas.

Oaxaca Day of the Dead 2025: TL;DR

Experiencing the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca is one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had (and that’s saying something). It’s a celebration of life, death, and everything in between, along with energetic parades, rich history, and delicious mezcal – who could ask for anything more? 

I hope this guide is helpful, I hope you enjoy every second of it, and I hope you send me a photo of your Catrina face paint 💀 

Cheers to your next adventure ✈️🥂