November 1st marks the Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos), a holiday that is among the most popular in Mexico.

The origins date back to hundreds of years ago with ancient Aztec festivals dedicated to the goddess Mictecacihuatl (thanks Wikipedia). In modern times, the celebration is still widely practiced around Mexico, the most popular states to see the celebration are Oaxaca and Michoacan.

This year, for the first time ever the Tourism Board is organizing a parade, similar to the one in Spectre, if you saw the latest James Bond film. Costumes and makeup are welcome, as thousands will flock to the streets to honor the traditions passed down from generations in Mexico. It’s truly an affair to remember right here in Mexico City.

Venture about an hour away from CDMX to a town called Mixquic and you’ll find a grand celebration of the Day of the Dead in its own right, complete with a candlelit vigil in a cemetery. The whole town celebrates Day of the Dead with preparation beginning days before the event itself, altars being erected and candles being lit for every soul. People who attend will see familiar sights: flowers, sugar skulls, pan de muerto, and face painting, but the celebration in total is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Feliz Dia de Muertos!