Mexico's Day of the Dead Celebrations Face Growing Concerns Over Overtourism

2026, October 31

Mexico

Mexico is preparing for its annual Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, taking place around 1 and 2 November. Streets and public spaces are decorated with bright orange marigolds, candles and traditional skeleton figures known as Catrinas, while families prepare colourful altars with photographs, food and offerings to remember deceased relatives. Major celebrations are taking place in Mexico City, Oaxaca and Michoacán, attracting visitors from around the world.

However, growing international tourism has created problems in some traditional communities. On the island of Janitzio in Michoacán, authorities have closed the local cemetery to tourists for the first time after heavy visitor numbers contributed to damage to tombs, crosses and sections of the cemetery wall. Access has been restricted to local families and friends of those buried there, highlighting the challenge of protecting cultural traditions while accommodating increasing international interest.