Day of the Dead in Malinalco
A tradition of mourning, memory and community: every year, Malinalco opens the doors of its homes to remember those who are no longer with us.
In Malinalco, the Day of the Dead is a farewell lived together as a community.
Between October 31 and November 2, the town's streets and homes fill with color, aromas, marigolds, candles and memories to welcome those who are no longer with us.
With wax candles we guide our loved ones on their way to Mictlán, especially in their first year of arrival. Families open the doors of their homes to share, through an altar, the family and historical memory of their departed.
The tradition changes over time thanks to its people. Keeping it alive is a way of caring for our identity and our heritage.
Windows that portray the lives of those who went before us.
Monumental altars are large-scale offerings that families and residents of Malinalco build with great dedication to honor loved ones who passed away in the last year.
With multiple levels, pre-Hispanic elements and contemporary details, each altar tells the story of a person and their family.
Discover the Los Muertos mapHow the altar route is lived
How the tradition unfolds
The first altars begin
In some cases, families start opening their altars from this day. It marks the start of the route.
The festivity begins
Malinalco fills with color, flowers and candlelight. You can visit the altars and walk the town's streets.
Remembering the children
Traditionally, this is the day to remember the children who left us too soon.
Day of the Dead
Adults are remembered. The festivity closes with offerings and visits to the cemeteries.
Dates may vary from family to family.
This is not a show: it is mourning.
Every monumental altar is the open home of a Malinalco family saying goodbye this year to a neighbor. They share their pain and their memories with enormous generosity. Visiting is a privilege, and the best way to say thank you is to accompany them with respect, silence and care.
- Speak softly and walk calmly.
- Do not touch or move anything on the offerings.
- Ask permission before photographing people, homes or private spaces.
- Thank the families: they are sharing their loved ones with you.
Let us care for this tradition so it stays alive.
Visit the altars with respect
Discover more about the culture and traditions of Malinalco.