Where to Celebrate
Day of the Dead in Chicago: The Museum Exhibition and Día de los Muertos Xicágo
The National Museum of Mexican Art has separate listings for a Día de Muertos exhibition and Xicágo's community program. Understand the difference before planning a visit.
Day of the Dead in San Francisco’s Mission District: Procession and Community Altars
The Mission's remembrance includes a Festival of Altars in a park and a separate procession through the streets. Here is how they differ and how to take part respectfully.
Day of the Dead in Oaxaca: Comparsas, Cemeteries and Altars, Night by Night
Explore Oaxaca's public celebrations and announced 2026 altars, understand the boundaries around family cemetery visits, and arrange a reliable ride back.
Plan & Prepare
"Feliz Día de Muertos"? What to Say, and Día de Muertos vs Día de los Muertos
Feliz Día de Muertos is correct and friendly, though Spanish coaches say people rarely exchange it face to face. Here are phrases that fit, and which name to use.
Visiting a Cemetery on Day of the Dead: Etiquette, Photos and What Not to Do
A cemetery on Día de Muertos is a family's space, even when the gates are open. How to be a good guest, handle photos, and check access before you book.
What Goes on an Ofrenda: The Meaning of Each Element on a Day of the Dead Altar
Candles, marigolds, water, copal and pan de muerto appear on altars across Mexico. Here are the meanings particular communities give them, and how altars change by region.