Cancún’s 2025 Hanal Pixán: 110K+ Expected

Cancún — The 2025 edition of Hanal Pixán, the traditional Day of the Dead celebration, is projected to be one of the most attended in recent years, with an estimated attendance of more than 110,000 people throughout four days of cultural, artistic, and gastronomic activities.

Carlos López Jiménez, the director of the Benito Juárez Institute of Culture and Arts, announced that the event will take place from October 30 to November 2, with main venues in Puerto Juárez, Las Palapas, and the Panteón de Los Olivos cemetery.

"We expect to surpass last year's numbers, with more than 110,000 attendees. It is a four-day celebration, and more people are joining every year, both locals and tourists," he emphasized.

A Maritime Procession and Special Staging

The festivities will commence on October 30 with the traditional maritime procession in Puerto Juárez, one of the most distinctive attractions of Hanal Pixán in Cancún.

"The Catrinas arrive at the dock, and a story is told about the permission the souls receive to visit us. This year, there will be a stage performance and a very special video mapping dedicated to the Community of the Dead," he detailed.

Showcasing Local Talent

Over the four days, more than 150 local artists will present dance, music, and theater performances. In addition, contests for altars and Catrina costumes will be held, with the official call for entries to be published in the coming days.

"There will be several prizes, and we want to continue promoting the talent and creativity of the people of Cancún," said López Jiménez.

The Feast of the Souls and Cemetery Activities

The "cena de ánimas," or Feast of the Souls, will be held on November 1 and 2 in the Parque de las Palapas, featuring altar exhibitions and the sale of handicrafts and local products. This will mark the fourteenth edition of the emblematic dinner, which seeks to preserve the essence of Hanal Pixán in the heart of the city, he said.

The Panteón de Los Olivos will also be a scene of activities on November 1 and 2, with music, traditional food, and offerings.

"It is one of the most significant things we have: going to the cemetery and sharing with our dead. People bring mariachis, trios, flowers, and dishes to spend time with them," he commented.

Economic Backing and International Projection

Finally, the director highlighted that this year the event will have the financial backing of the Secretary of Tourism, with the goal of projecting the celebration internationally and generating significant economic benefits for artisans, entrepreneurs, and local commerce.