Catrina parade in Mexico City

On October 25, a vibrant parade of Catrinas took place on Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City, drawing thousands of participants and spectators. The event featured dancers, couples dressed as skeletal newlyweds, and even costumed dogs, creating a lively atmosphere.

Costumes and makeup

Participants wore a range of costumes, from bright and colorful outfits to sophisticated designs with intricate embroidery and elaborate headdresses. Behind the scenes, makeup artists spent between 20 and 40 minutes applying the iconic Catrina look, a full-face design that is central to the parade.

Origins of La Catrina

La Catrina, the skeletal figure at the heart of the parade, was created more than a century ago by illustrator José Guadalupe Posada. The image was later popularized by artist Diego Rivera and has since become one of Mexico's most recognizable cultural symbols.

Connection to Día de los Muertos

The Catrina parade is part of the growing prominence of Día de los Muertos, a holiday celebrated mainly on November 1 and 2, when families honor their deceased loved ones with altars, flowers, candles, and offerings. The event reflects the cultural significance of remembering the dead.

Upcoming festivities

Mexico is preparing for an even larger parade on October 31, featuring more than 4,000 artists, 12 floats, and two giant balloons. In the capital’s Zócalo, a 32-meter-tall Catrina will be surrounded by millions of chrysanthemums, continuing the tradition of blending music, creativity, and memory into a celebration of life.