With more than 45 cultural and tourism events in various municipalities, the state of Puebla is set to celebrate the Day of the Dead with a vibrant program aimed at honoring tradition, boosting the local economy, and enhancing Mexico’s international cultural profile.
Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, Mexico’s Minister of Tourism, and Alejandro Armenta Mier, Governor of Puebla, unveiled the official schedule of activities, which will bring together local artisans, producers, and tourism service providers through festivals, processions, and culinary exhibitions.
“Behind every activity there is employment, economic benefit, and above all, the pride of being from Puebla and of being Mexican,” emphasized Rodríguez Zamora during the presentation.
Rodríguez Zamora noted that the Day of the Dead, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, has become one of Mexico’s strongest international tourism symbols.
“Wherever you go, the first thing people ask about is the Day of the Dead,” she said. “This tradition has grown stronger and is now present again in homes, stores, and public spaces, thanks to the pride we take in our roots.”
The Minister underlined that this celebration is not only a profound cultural legacy but also a driver of economic growth. Nationally, Mexico expects spending of over 30 billion pesos (US$1,63 billion), with more than 1.6 million tourists staying in hotels.
At the state level, Puebla’s Director of Tourism, Carla López-Malo Villalón, projected the arrival of more than 850,000 visitors, a 12% increase over last year, and an economic impact of close to one billion pesos (US$54.20 million).
“Let’s consume local, travel through Mexico, and include new destinations on our list during this great celebration. The Day of the Dead is a festival that honors life and unites us as a nation,” Rodríguez Zamora added.
Governor Alejandro Armenta Mier described Puebla as “the heartbeat of Mexico” during this season, combining tradition, creativity, and hospitality throughout the state.
“Puebla is dressed in tradition, in the color of cempasúchil flowers, sweet bread, and reverence for our loved ones. Each municipality offers a unique experience, and we are ready to welcome everyone with security and warmth,” Armenta said.
Among the most notable events are the Festival of Light and Life in Chignahuapan, the Valley of Catrinas in Atlixco, catrina processions in San Pedro Cholula, the Flight of the Quetzals in Cuetzalan, and the monumental altars in Huaquechula and Tochimilco, along with concerts, artisan fairs, and culinary exhibitions.
López-Malo Villalón also announced that Puebla’s Day of the Dead tradition will transcend borders, with monumental altars and catrina displays to be featured in Madrid, New York, Chicago, Bogotá, and Los Angeles, among other cities, in coordination with Mexico’s international cultural missions.
The presentation was attended by Juan Rivera Trejo, Mayor of Chignahuapan, and David Reyes González, Mayor of Tochimilco, who emphasized the collaboration among federal, state, and municipal governments to ensure a safe and high-impact cultural season.
Related: 1.6 Million Tourists Expected to Visit Mexico During Day of the Dead Festivities
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