Grupo Xcaret has announced its lineup of events and performances to celebrate Day of the Dead, including live music, ancient ceremonies and a dinner prepared by Michelin-starred chef Carlos Gaytán. From October 30 – November 3, travelers can witness the 14th edition of the Festival of Life and Death Traditions at the brand’s Hotel Xcaret Mexico and Xcaret Park.
Declared an “intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO, Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of loved ones who have passed away with colorful ritual. As part of the event, each year Grupo Xcaret selects one Mexican state to honor during the festivities, with San Luis Potosi being this year’s honored state. Guests attending the five-day festival can experience authentic Mexican history, art and entertainment that highlights San Luis Potosi’s Xantolo harvest celebration, which aims to connect humans and ancestors.
Here’s a look at some of the festival highlights:
Xcaret Park
- Acuarela Symphony Concert: Four voices accompanied by 27 musicians will perform a symphony on a geographical-musical tour of the various regions of San Luis Potosi with songs by Potosino composers.
- Tamaletom Flyers of San Luis Potosí: Also known as the “flight of the hawk,” the ancient Mesoamerican pole-flying ceremony and ritual is believed to be a way to communicate to the Gods of the Sea, Thunder and Land.
- Hands-on activities: Visitors can create their own colorful alebrije or spirit guide animals, craft paper flowers for ofrendas, attend chocolate making classes and design calavera skull masks.
- Gastronomy: This year, palates will be filled with traditional fare from different regions of San Luis Potosi; dishes include enchiladas, gorditas, tamales, desserts made with cinnamon, honey and anis, as well as Mezcal tastings.
- Holistic healing: Mayan healers will be on hand for spiritual cleansings and rituals along with natural holistic products for sale.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
- Mezcal Pairing Dinner: Michelin-star Mexican chef, Carlos Gaytán, will host a private Mezcal tasting alongside chefs Orlando Trejo and Fabiola Meraz, paired with cuisine inspired by the Mayan region and San Luis Potosi.
- Hanal Pixan Dinner: A menu inspired by Day of the Dead will be served at Restaurant Las Cuevas, an on-site restaurant nestled between the property’s caves and cenotes.
- Live Entertainment: Guests can enjoy shows by performers and acrobats from outside of Mexico’s borders such as Jose Mendoza, Trio Xochipitzahuatl, Erik de Luna and more.
For more information, visit www.festivaldevidaymuerte.com.
Related Stories
30Under30: The Top Family Resorts in Mexico
What to Know About Sargassum Seaweed in Mexico
NIZUC Resort and Spa to Celebrate Mexican Independence Day
Flights to Mexico: Volaris Increases Capacity, Adds New Seasonal Route