Día de Muertos, USA News: Just 50 meters from number 20 Alberto Aguilera Street, the bright orange of cempasúchil flowers draws the attention of passersby discovering the charm originating from the Fundación Casa México en España. “It’s a Day of the Dead altar,” the security guard tells a curious visitor who steps inside to find an offering featuring skulls, flowers, and xoloitzcuintles accompanied by the music of Agustín Lara.
The altar is dedicated to Agustín Lara this year, allowing visitors to listen to his main compositions while touring the three-floor exhibition, explains Rubén Pizarro, communications director of the foundation. The display showcases popular Mexican art techniques including cartonería through catrinas and skeletons, glazed pottery, talavera, popotillo, and woven palm. Designed by Beatriz Redo, the altar draws inspiration from the mountains and cemeteries of Michoacán.
The free exhibition runs until November 8 and includes guided tours, informational displays on offering elements like candles, water, bread, and catrinas, and a dedicated pet altar. Visitors can write messages on paper to be burned in a symbolic ceremony on November 9 so the messages reach the sky. Guests can also purchase altar items at the end of the tour, such as sugar skulls, papel picado, and cempasúchil flowers.
Celebrations Across Mexico
In San Miguel de Allende, Hotel Matilda hosts its traditional La Cena Negra, a contemporary event merging gastronomy and art where guests dress as catrines and catrices. Chefs Vicente Torres and guest chef Rodrigo Rivera Río prepare a menu titled Traditional Funerals on November 1. In the Riviera Maya, Mayakoba properties including Banyan Tree, Fairmont, and Rosewood offer immersive 360-degree experiences guided by a hummingbird named Zunu, complemented by lobby altars and a Legend Dinner at Banyan Tree. Meanwhile, in Mexico City, the St. Regis hotel features an altar at Diana restaurant designed by Jacinto, honoring departed loved ones with elements from Puebla, Morelos, and Hidalgo alongside traditional pan de muerto and candlelight.
