In addition to all the projects and celebrations for Halloween, Madrid is also preparing to celebrate the Day of the Dead and although there are many people who do not hesitate to visit the House of Mexico with the famous Altar of the Dead, this event is also accompanied by a colorful parade that will fill the streets of the city center with life and tradition. Organized by the Cultural Institute of Mexico in Spaina, the event seeks to share with Madrilenians one of the most emblematic festivities of Mexican culture with a special Day of the Dead parade in Madrid, of which we offer you all the details below.
With catrinas, mariachis and dancers, The Day of the Dead parade in Madrid will be a spectacular display of folklore and culture that It will take place on November 1, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. Throughout this parade, participants will be able to enjoy the music from the Mariachi Alma del Son and dance from the folkloric ballet Leyendas de Méxicor two groups that will bring the best of Mexican art to Madrid. Additionally, this year the main protagonist will be a catrina dressed in an exclusive design created by fashion students from the Creative Campus of the European University of Madrid. The initiative invites all Madrilenians and visitors to join the tour with catrina or catrina costumes, transforming the event into a sea of costumes, flowers and candles in honor of this very special celebration.
Madrid Day of the Dead Parade Details
The Day of the Dead parade in Madrid represents a unique opportunity to witness a traditional Mexican celebration in the Spanish capital. The activity is open to all public who wishes to participate, without having to buy tickets. As reported by the Cultural Institute of Mexico in Spain, these are the Spain event details:
- Date and time: Friday November 1, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.
- Meeting point: Plaza de las Cortes.
- Itinerary: From Plaza de las Cortés to Plaza Mayor.
This route will allow locals and visitors to enjoy the colorful spectacle in some of Madrid’s most emblematic places, showcasing the fusion of cultures that characterizes the city. Participants are encouraged to attend dressed as catrinas and catrinesa way of engaging in the symbolism of the holiday, which honors the deceased and celebrates life.
The protagonists of the parade
One of the main attractions of the parade is the participation of Mariachi Alma del Son, who will perform traditional Mexican songs along the route. Mariachi music, known for its catchy rhythms and moving lyrics, is an indispensable part of Mexican culture and will add a special touch to the procession.
The folkloric ballet Leyendas de México will also be presentedwhich will be presented with typical dances and costumes that tell stories and legends from different regions of Mexico. The protagonist Catrina, who will parade with a unique design created by students of the Creative Campus of the European University of Madrid, It symbolizes the beauty and mysticism that surrounds the celebration of Day of the Dead. This artistic collaboration is the result of a joint effort between Mexico and Spain, a tribute to traditions and art.
The parade also benefits from the collaboration of Aguascalientes State Congress and Tourism Office. In addition Cultural Institute of Mexico in Spaininvites everyone to visit their Michoacán Altar of the Deadand which is a contribution from the Ministry of Tourism of the Government of the State of Michoacán and can be visited between October 28 and November 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Monday to Friday).
Origin of Day of the Dead
Day of the Dead is a celebration that has its roots in pre-Hispanic times. and is part of indigenous Mexican traditions. Originally, Mesoamerican civilizations worshiped death and believed that on this date, the souls of the deceased returned to their loved ones. With the arrival of the Spanish and the mixing of cultures, this festival took on new forms, becoming a tribute to the deceased which today combines religious and traditional elements.
This celebration was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2008.because of its deep meaning and the richness of its rituals. On All Souls’ Day, altars and offerings are filled with marigold flowers, candles, chopped paper, food and objects that represent the life and tastes of the deceased. Mexican families come together to remember their loved ones, celebrating their lives rather than mourning their absence.
This parade in Madrid allows, although thousands of kilometers away, locals and visitors to the Spanish capital can participate in this beautiful tradition, approach Mexican culture in an authentic and participatory way.
