Xcaret will pay tribute to the memory of the dead during the 17th edition of the Festival of Life and Death Traditions, a cultural celebration featuring Mexican art, music, and gastronomy taking place from October 30th through November 3rd. The festival offers guests an immersive journey into the heart of the cherished Mexican tradition, the Day of the Dead. This year, the festival shines a spotlight on the state of Querétaro, welcoming visitors to explore the work of local artisans and savor delectable culinary experiences by talented chefs and traditional cooks.
“The festival will feature three monumental altars, along with a remarkable lineup of 330 artistic presentations, 15 simultaneous forums, theatrical tours, among other activities, that will bring together over 960 talented artists. This grand celebration will unfold over the course of five days. Over 62,000 visitors are expected to join the celebration and honor the memory of their loved ones,” said Leticia Aguerrebere, Director of Art, Culture, Production and Festivals for Xcaret.
The festival will also highlight renowned Mexican singer and three-time Grammy Award Winner, Natalia Lafourcade, who will grace the stage with two performances on November 1st and 2nd as part of her “De todas las flores” tour. Both shows are set to captivate a crowd of up to 3,000 attendees at the El Gran Tlachco located at Xcaret Park. The concert and festival, aim to commemorate and celebrate Mexican history and culture, all while promoting one of the country’s most significant traditions.
“The Festival of Life and Death Traditions is one of the most cherished celebrations in Xcaret, and it is an honor to share with the world our traditions dedicated to honor the dead, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the bearers of these traditions, who will share their customs with our visitors,” said Ileana Rodríguez, Director of Sustainability and Institutional Relations for Xcaret.
This year, for the very first time, the festival will extend over a span of five days, and visitors will enjoy Mexican traditions with a touch of enotourism, courtesy of a guest state renowned for its exceptional wines. The cultural fusion will come to life through menu tastings showcasing Querétaro traditional gastronomy. In addition, Grupo Aztlán and the student band from the Autonomous University of Querétaro (UAQ) will lead parades, while Grupo Xaha, Grupo Bohemio, Trio Queretanas, and Trio Gallardia Huasteca will showcase their talent through musical performances. For visitors interested in crafting, a variety of workshops will be offered including painting, chocolate-making, embroidery, design, handicrafts, ceramics, and traditional Mexican sweets.
In addition, the cultural event is a celebration for adults and children alike, and at the new Interactive Hacienda a children’s area families can learn about the traditions surrounding the Day of the Dead through theater presentations, puppet shows, an art exhibition, photography, sculpture, and workshops teaching traditional Mexican arts and crafts.
The main venue for the festival will be Xcaret Park and will also include Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Hotel Xcaret Arte, and La Casa de la Playa. The three hotels feature eco-integrating architecture and design, seamlessly blending with their natural surroundings while paying homage to Mexican culture and history. Teatro de la Ciudad de Playa del Carmen will also host the festival and serve as the venue for a theater performance.
