Oaxaca during Day of the Dead is pure magic. If you’ve been dreaming of witnessing this colourful, cultural celebration in one of the most vibrant cities in Mexico, there are a few things you should know before booking that flight. From navigating the parades to paying your respects in cemeteries, visiting Oaxaca for Day of the dead is a wonderful experience and these tips will help you make the most of your trip while staying respectful to the local traditions.

Book Early

From accommodations to tours, everything books up way in advance. Anything left costs 5x more than usual—or more. I’m usually a last-minute kind of girl, booking a week before my trip. But this time, I was checking accommodations two months ahead and still ended up sharing an Airbnb with a bunch of bed bugs. Yep, it was rough. And it’s not just the rooms—you’ll find people come to Oaxaca to take mezcal tours or join cooking classes, and guess what? Those sell out quickly, too. So, visiting Oaxaca for day of the dead does require some planning and the moment you know your travel dates, book everything you can!

Don’t Dress Up in Cemeteries

Oaxaca takes its Day of the Dead traditions seriously. Unlike Halloween, this celebration is both joyful and deeply sacred. It’s totally cool to dress up as a skeleton (Katrina-style) around the city and get your face painted with marigolds, but when it comes to visiting cemeteries, tone it down. Families are there celebrating their loved ones, and while they don’t mind tourists observing, they might find it a bit disrespectful if you’re dressed as the undead. So, enjoy the festivities—but remember, cemeteries are a space for reflection and remembrance.

Parades Happen All Day (and Night)

You’ll hear them before you see them. Parades during Day of the Dead don’t just happen at one specific time—they pop up all over the place, day and night. The dates might vary slightly, so it can be tricky to plan, especially considering how fast everything books up. But don’t worry, once you’re in Oaxaca, just keep an ear out for music and follow the crowds. These parades celebrate everything from local causes to community organizations. It’s all part of the magic.

Bring Tequila

Want to connect with locals in the cemeteries? Bring a bottle of tequila. Seriously, it’s a great way to share in the evening’s festivities in a respectful way. If someone offers you a drink, it’s considered polite to offer some back. Sharing a toast over the gravesites of their loved ones is an intimate part of the celebration, and it opens up opportunities to hear stories and truly connect with the culture. Just remember, this isn’t a party—it’s a time to bond and appreciate the shared moments of remembrance.

Expect Crowds Everywhere

Oaxaca becomes a hub for both locals and travelers during Day of the Dead, so expect crowds at almost every turn. From packed restaurants to bustling markets, it can be overwhelming at times. My advice? Embrace it. The energy is part of the experience! If you’re not a fan of big crowds, plan to visit smaller villages nearby for a more intimate version of the celebration. They’re just as beautiful but a bit more low-key.

Prepare to Walk (a lot)

If you’re planning to explore Oaxaca during Day of the Dead, get ready to walk—a lot. With the city overflowing with crowds and the streets often closed for parades, you won’t find many Ubers or buses available. The best way to get around is on foot, so make sure you have comfortable shoes and a good attitude. The festive energy makes it worth every step, but choosing which cemeteries to visit can help you plan your routes better.

Two of the most popular cemeteries to visit during the evening are Panteón General and Xoxocotlán Cemetery. Panteón General, located close to the city center, is one of the most iconic spots for Day of the Dead, where locals adorn graves with candles, flowers, and altars. Xoxocotlán Cemetery, a little further out, is equally mesmerizing and known for its vibrant atmosphere with music and food vendors. Both cemeteries will be crowded, but they’re also some of the most beautiful places to experience this sacred tradition.

Visiting Oaxaca for Day of the Dead is an unforgettable experience, but it does require some pre planning for you to enjoy to the fullest. However, don’t let that deter you from visiting. Sometimes things will go off plan but try your best to shake it off and let the spirit of the holiday encourage you to enjoy the moment.