A Mystical Island In Mexico Is One Of The Best Destinations For Day Of The Dead Celebrations

Few cultures have managed to master the art of celebrating both life and death as beautifully as Mexico has. If you've seen Disney's incredible animated film "Coco," you'll already be familiar with the fascinating concept behind the Day of the Dead. On November 1, the night of Día de los Muertos, Mexicans choose to honor their deceased by celebrating their lives through joyous festivities and cultural traditions, rather than mourning their deaths. This wonderful concept creates an unbreakable bond that allows the memory and love of a lost family member or friend to foster and grow, challenging the concept of "til death do us part."

Visiting Mexico during the Day of the Dead is a life-changing experience. From beautiful skull masks to skeletons playing instruments, you'll find the fear of death slowly melting away as you take part in the festivities. While every city in Mexico has similar traditions, there are certain places that are epic destinations for travelers wanting to uncover the mystical experience, and witness the ancient customs coming to life. 

One such destination is Janitzio Island, located in Lake Pátzcuaro in the state of Michoacán. The deep rooted Mexican culture and mystic spirituality can be sensed in every part of Janitzio Island. Home to the indigenous Purépecha people — one of the very few tribes who resisted the Aztec empire — their rich, ancient heritage is strongly preserved, especially when it comes to Día de los Muertos festivities. With a strong belief that death is a continuation of life, Janitzio's Day of the Dead comes with rich, spiritual, and traditional customs, such as candlelight vigils, vibrant processions, and heartwarming rituals, making it one of the best destinations to experience this special event. 

As night falls, the after-dark processions begin. Locals dressed in traditional attire carry flowers, candles, and offerings as they head to the cemetery to reunite with their loved ones for the Feast of the Souls. Say goodbye to the fear of cemeteries, death, skulls, and skeletons as one of the most enchanting and spiritual experiences occurs during Janitzio Island's candlelit cemetery vigil. With thousands of people coming together to honor their lost ones, the flickering candles create a mesmerizing scene that is absolutely magical.

With violins, guitars, and traditional music playing in the background, performances and dances create an energetic, buzzing atmosphere in the main square, especially when La Danza de los Viejitos (the Dance of the Old Men) begins. From custom clothing, hats, and ponchos to masks with exaggerated facial features, the dancers represent old men, or viejitos, in a humorous and charming way. The change from slow to sudden bursts of lively movements in this cultural dance symbolizes the wisdom of elderly men who still have a zest for life, representing the continuation of life even in old age.

One of the most special performances at Janitzio island is the ceremonial performance of the fishermen. The visual spectacle shows the fishermen paddling out in the misty waters, moving their iconic butterfly-shaped nets in synchronized movements, creating a unique performance. Shaped like a butterfly's wings, the fishing nets are a symbol of transformation and are associated with the afterlife, making them a unique, essential part of Day of the Dead festivities. 

Arriving a day or two early is highly recommended to witness the immense details that go into preparing for the event of the year. Some of the key rituals can be quite personal as families build and decorate intricate altars filled with some of the deceased's favorite foods, beverages, photos, and prized possessions. Visitors can witness public preparations, like face painting and decorating common spaces, especially around the cemetery and public altars. This provides a respectful way to join in the celebrations without overstepping. Visitors may be welcomed into the homes of the locals and asked to light a candle or place a flower for their loved ones. This is an incredibly personal experience that should be accepted with love, appreciation, and respect.

To help guide the spirits, the entire island is decorated with vibrant orange and yellow flowers — known as marigolds or cempasúchil — adorning the pathways, graves, and altars. It is believed that their strong fragrance attracts the souls of the dead and welcomes them back to the land of the living. So if you're looking for a truly iconic experience with locals going all out to set up for the fascinating day ahead, be sure to arrive a few days early and witness the transformation as well as the local traditions happening at Janitzio Island.