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Mexico City’s Day of the Dead Parade Draws 1.45 Million, City Reports

Official tallies highlight a government-produced spectacle blending ritual remembrance with tributes to icons and historic anniversaries.

Overview

  • The Nov. 1 Gran Desfile followed the route from Chapultepec’s Puerta de los Leones along Paseo de la Reforma to the Zócalo, where a monumental ofrenda awaited.
  • More than 8,000 performers in over 50 comparsas participated, mobilized through city cultural networks including Pilares, Faros and Utopías.
  • Nine thematic blocks structured the procession: 700 años; El último viaje (Pilares); Faros; De México para el mundo; Comunitaria; Utopías; Tradición y renovación; La gran Ciudad de México; and the Injuve contingent.
  • Homages featured figures such as Carlos Monsiváis, Paquita la del Barrio, Tongolele and Rockdrigo González, alongside nods to 700 years of Mexico‑Tenochtitlan and the 40th anniversary of the 1985 earthquake.
  • Parallel to the capital’s showcase, Dolores Hidalgo staged its third Festival de la Muerte with catrina contests, a zombie parade, alfeñique market stalls and community altars.