From October 28 to November 2, discover the festivals, altars, parades, and experiences that will fill Guanajuato’s corners with color and mystery.
Guanajuato is preparing to celebrate Day of the Dead 2026 with illuminated streets, impressive offerings, catrina parades, and festivals filled with tradition. From Guanajuato Capital to the state’s Magical Towns, discover where to experience this celebration, what activities await you, and how to complement your visit with autumn and Halloween experiences.
In 2026, eight festivals included in the official Vive Tus Tradiciones calendar invite tourists and locals to discover different ways to remember our loved ones. Prepare your camera, gather your family, and find your next adventure.
Day of the Dead Festival in Guanajuato Capital: A journey into the underworld!
📆: October 28 to November 2
📍: Guanajuato Capital
The underground streets, alleys and colonial architecture of Guanajuato Capital are preparing for a spectacular transformation with the eighth edition of the Day of the Dead Festival.
Walk through the Tunnel of Tradition, admire the Tapete de la Muerte (Carpet of Death) and marvel at the Catrinas Parade, the video mapping projections and the Monumental Offering of the University of Guanajuato.
In addition, Japan will participate as a guest country, performing the Bon Odori dance, while Playa del Carmen will share the mysticism of Hanal Pixán, a Mayan tradition to honor the dead.
Festival of the Souls in Salvatierra: a celebration of history and tradition
📆: October 30 to November 2
📍:Salvatierra
The Magical Town of Salvatierra awaits you with a celebration where music, art, and memory come together. Its historic streets will be filled with cempasúchil flowers and cultural expressions that keep our roots alive.
One of its great attractions will be the Catrinas Parade, accompanied by live music, ideal for enjoying with the family while discovering the architectural charm of the municipality.
Xanharu Festival in Yuriria: the last journey of the souls
📆: October 30 to November 2
📍: Yuriria
How about experiencing Day of the Dead in a destination where water and history are part of the landscape?
The Magical Town of Yuriria presents the Xanharu Festival: Path of the Spirits 2026, under the theme “The Last Journey”.
Monumental altars, handicrafts, and traditional expressions will come together in a celebration that combines the symbolism of the afterlife with the charm of this destination. It is an opportunity to discover a different facet of Guanajuato and to enjoy its cultural wealth.
Festival of Death in Dolores Hidalgo, the Cradle of National Independence: a celebration of our traditions
📆: October 30 to November 2
📍: Dolores Hidalgo, the Cradle of National Independence
The Cradle of National Independence is also part of the 2026 Day of the Dead celebrations with its Festival of Death.
Take advantage of this date to discover Dolores Hidalgo, Cradle of National Independence, a Magical Town where Mexican history, gastronomy, and traditions come together. Between a stroll through its streets and a stop to try its famous ice cream, you can enjoy the seasonal atmosphere.
Xerécuaro Festival of Life and Death: Traditions come to life!
📆: October 30
📍: Jerécuaro
🎟️: Free entry
If you’re looking for an experience to get closer to the local celebrations, Jerécuaro has a special invitation for you.
The 3rd Xerécuaro Life and Death Festival will bring together music, color, and cultural expressions to remember those who have already departed. A celebration to be shared in community, to enjoy the festive atmosphere, and to keep traditions alive.
Festival of Spirits in Tarimoro: legends, altars and a parade full of magic
📆: October 30 to November 1
📍: Tarimoro
In Tarimoro, the Jardín Principal will be the meeting point for a celebration that invites us to remember our loved ones through stories, color, and tradition.
The Festival of Spirits will offer altars, legends, and the traditional Spirit Parade, creating an especially attractive experience for those who enjoy learning about the customs of each community.
Festival Mátur’é in Moroleón: a path to Mictlán
📆: October 31 to November 2
📍: Moroleón
Art and imagination will be the protagonists of the sixth edition of the Mátur’é Festival, Camino al Mictlán.
This event invites us to explore traditions through creativity, with altar competitions, decorated facades, and monumental sculptures that will give a special personality to the celebration.
Those interested in participating in the competitions can consult the rules and register before October 10, 2026.
Festival of the Souls in Abasolo: tradition and memory at Rancho Nuevo de la Cruz
📆: October 30 to November 1
📍: Abasolo
In the community of Rancho Nuevo de la Cruz, Day of the Dead will be celebrated in an atmosphere full of symbolism and warmth.
The Festival of the Souls 2026 invites you to visit its altars, enjoy the cempasúchil decorations, and share a celebration that honors the people who remain present in the memories of their families.
It is an excellent alternative for those who want to connect with the community traditions of Guanajuato.
Are you still eager for more adventures? In addition to traditional celebrations, Guanajuato offers seasonal experiences for those seeking thrills, original photos, and different activities.
Pumpkin Festival: an autumn of fantasy at Parque Guanajuato Bicentenario
📆: October 2 to November 2
📍: Silao de la Victoria
🎟️: $50 MXN
Giant pumpkins take over Silao de la Victoria! Parque Guanajuato Bicentenario presents the second edition of the Pumpkin Festival, an experience to explore fantastic settings, enjoy family activities, and discover perfect spots for photography.
Among its attractions you will find a pumpkin tunnel, monumental figures, Dracula’s castle and a themed cemetery. For those who prefer bigger thrills, there will also be a Horror Maze.
Venue: Parque Guanajuato Bicentenario, Silao–Guanajuato toll highway, km 3.8.
Schedule: 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The box office and parking close at 8:00 p.m.
Tickets: General admission $50 MXN; INAPAM and people with disabilities $25 MXN. Children under 3 years old enter for free. Some attractions have an additional cost.
Halloween Zoo in León: Dare to live a night of terror!
📆: October 15 to 31, 2026
📍: León
⚠️: Ages 11 and older
If scares, creepy characters and adrenaline are your thing, Halloween Zoo has an experience prepared just for you.
On its tenth anniversary, this horror festival debuts a new venue at the Feria de León fairgrounds, with six immersive walk-throughs, shows, carnival rides and an animatronics zone.
Do you dare to explore its horror scenes?
Venue: Feria de León fairgrounds, Boulevard Adolfo López Mateos #1820, Colonia La Martinica, León.
Schedule: Thursdays from 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.; Fridays and Saturdays from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Tickets: Available on official channels and authorized points of sale. Check the current price when purchasing.
Important: Entry is restricted to guests older than 11, and visitors in costume or makeup are not admitted.
For information and tickets, visit Halloween Zoo.
In Guanajuato, every cempasúchil flower tells a story and every offering keeps a memory alive. From the tunnels of Guanajuato Capital to the festivals of its Magical Towns, the state awaits you with experiences that combine history, culture, and tradition.
Whether you’re looking for a meaningful celebration, a family walk through the pumpkins, or a night of horror, you’ll find a reason to extend your visit.
This 2026 Day of the Dead, come to Guanajuato, discover its traditions and celebrate life by remembering those who will always be present.