Mixquic, a place where the dead return…

Every year, salt, water, confetti, petate, white, purple and orange flowers are placed. Candles are lit, the favorite food of each of the deceased is placed, sugar skulls, bread of the dead and a prayer is said for them. The offering is a tradition that has nine essential elements, which if any were missing, would break the spiritual charm that surrounds this belief since it is an act of worship. For the rest of the world, the cult of the dead is a rather macabre custom; for Mexicans, since ancient times, it has been the reason for one of the most important and distinctive traditions carried out in our country. Mixquic is one of the towns where this event is celebrated in a big way, making it a holiday that reflects our national identity.

San Andrés Mixquic (in Mexquite) is located just one hour from Xochimilco and was considered a Ceremonial Center for the Mexicas. Today it is an archaeological site, where the most representative pieces of this culture have been placed. It is a place worth visiting, as are its surroundings, where there are convents, chapels, temples and parishes that date back to the 16th century.

The rituals around death that are carried out year after year are a bridge of communication with the dead, since they are the days that they live with them, because for the inhabitants death is presence and not absence.

With twelve chimes of the San Andrés Apóstol Parish, the arrival of the souls of children is announced on November 1st. It is said that they must place a star, a small barrel or a paper cross at the door of their house and light a candle to guide the souls of the children to the place that was their home in life, then their offering is placed.

Thousands of visitors gather every year in the vicinity of the town and especially in the Parish Pantheon, to witness the purest Mixquic tradition. To bid farewell to the faithful departed who will take their way back to their eternal home, an act that is known as the alumbrada.

During the days of the celebration Mixquic is transformed, filling itself with lights, aromas and flavors. The town offers a variety of activities and attractions that it shares with residents and visitors who gather every year to live this experience that envelops the town. It is estimated that there are more than 15 thousand visitors who like to marvel at the festivities, as well as the sawdust carpets that form flowers and images.

Located southeast of Mexico City, in the Tlahuac Delegation, today this community is made up of four neighborhoods which fight not to be devoured by the urbanization monster and to be able to preserve their traditional atmosphere. Mixquic is a must-see destination, because its appeal goes beyond the Day of the Dead.

You can't miss the excellent family atmosphere and the friendly people, making you participate in this magnificent event. Come and learn about our traditions and above all... experience them!