Mexico City on October 31 is two holidays at once. One is Halloween, borrowed from the United States and enthusiastically adopted: costumes, parties, kids asking for candy. The other is the start of Day of the Dead, Mexico's own and far older tradition. In 2026 they land on the same day as the city's Day of the Dead parade, which makes October 31 one of the biggest nights of the year.
Does Mexico City celebrate Halloween?#
Yes, and more every year. On October 31 you'll find:
- Costume parties in bars and clubs, especially in Roma, Condesa and Polanco.
- Kids in costume going around shops and building entrances asking "¿Me da mi calaverita?": their version of trick-or-treat, asking for a little candy or a coin.
- Decorations in shopping centres next to the first Day of the Dead altars.
Halloween vs Day of the Dead#
| Halloween | Day of the Dead | |
|---|---|---|
| When | October 31 | November 1 and 2 (altars go up from late October) |
| Origin | Imported, mostly from the US | Mexican, with pre-Hispanic roots; UNESCO-listed |
| Mood | Scary, playful, costumes | Remembering and welcoming back loved ones |
| Symbols | Pumpkins, witches, ghosts | Marigolds, altars (ofrendas), sugar skulls, the Catrina |
The most common mistake visitors make is calling Day of the Dead "Mexican Halloween". It isn't, and many Mexicans find the comparison off. Our Day of the Dead 2026 guide explains each day, and the ofrenda guide explains the altars you'll see everywhere.
October 31, 2026: parade by day, Halloween by night#
In 2026, Mexico City's Day of the Dead parade is on Saturday October 31, the same day as Halloween. Entry is free. The city announces the time and route; it traditionally runs along Paseo de la Reforma to the Zócalo.
A good plan for the day:
- Afternoon: the parade. Arrive at least two hours early for a spot on Reforma, bring water and keep your phone in a front pocket.
- Early evening: the monumental altars around the Zócalo and the centre, when the light is good.
- Night: a Halloween party in Roma or Condesa, or a quieter dinner if you want to save energy for November 1 and 2.
Where to go on November 1 and 2#
The days that follow are the heart of Day of the Dead. Mixquic, in the south of the city, is famous for its candle-lit cemetery on the night of November 1–2. Many travellers also head to Oaxaca for Day of the Dead. In the city, the altars stay up in museums, markets and homes.
Tips#
- Book rooms early. The parade weekend fills the centre and Reforma.
- Dress warm at night. Late October evenings in Mexico City are cool.
- Be respectful at altars and cemeteries. Ask before you photograph families.
- Catrina face paint is welcome at parades and parties when worn with respect.
Is Mexico City safe? covers the city's busy nights, and the best neighbourhoods help you choose where to stay.
Spend the night with someone from the city#
October 31 in Mexico City is easier, and better, with a chilango who knows which street to watch the parade from and which party is worth it. Roavi Local Friends in Mexico City are locals who spend time with travellers, set their own rates and message you directly before you meet.
Spend Halloween and the parade with a local.
Meet a Local Friend in Mexico CityFrequently Asked Questions
Is Halloween celebrated in Mexico City?
Yes. October 31 has costume parties in bars and clubs, especially in Roma, Condesa and Polanco, and children in costume go door to door or around shops asking for their 'calaverita' (a little candy or money). It sits alongside Day of the Dead rather than replacing it.Is Day of the Dead the same as Halloween?
No. Halloween is about fear and costumes; Day of the Dead (November 1 and 2) is about remembering and welcoming back loved ones who have died, with altars, marigolds, food and visits to cemeteries. Calling it 'Mexican Halloween' is a common mistake that many Mexicans find off.When is the Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City in 2026?
Saturday, October 31, 2026, the same day as Halloween. Entry is free; the time and exact route are announced by the city, and it traditionally runs along Paseo de la Reforma to the Zócalo. Arrive at least two hours early.What should I wear for Halloween in Mexico City?
Any costume works at a Halloween party. Catrina face paint and dresses are also popular at the end of October, especially around the parade, and worn with respect they're welcome. Outside a party, dress for the evening cold: Mexico City nights in late October are cool.What do kids say on Halloween in Mexico?
Instead of 'trick or treat', children ask '¿Me da mi calaverita?', meaning 'Will you give me my little skull?', a request for candy or a coin.
