To make the most of this season, we have planned an incredible weekend excursion for our students!

Our journey kicks off on Saturday, October 31, with a special trip to Mexico City. We will explore the rich history of the Centro Histórico before heading over to Chapultepec Park, where the city comes alive with incredible festivities. You’ll get to marvel at stunning altares de muertos (altars), vibrant comparsas (traditional dance processions), lively music, and a breathtaking drone show lighting up the night sky.

Sunday, November 1: The Mystical “Cereada” in Ocotepec

The following day, continuing a beloved tradition we look forward to almost every year, we will visit the historic town of Ocotepec—now a charming suburb right on the edge of Cuernavaca.

Ocotepec is world-famous for its unique and deeply moving tradition known as “La Cereada”.

• What is La Cereada? When a family experiences a recent loss, they build an elaborate Ofrenda Nueva (New Offering) inside their home, shaped symbolically to represent the departed loved one.

• On the night of November 1, the community and visitors participate in a luminous vigil. People walk through the streets carrying large wax candles (ceras) to light the way for the returning souls.

• The best part? The doors of local homes are thrown wide open. Visitors offer a candle to the grieving family as a sign of respect and support, and in return, the family warmly welcomes everyone with traditional food, hot coffee, and atole. It is a powerful display of community, empathy, and love that conquers grief.

Bringing the Tradition Home: School Altars and Pan de Muerto

Our celebration doesn’t stop on the road! Back at the school, we will build our very own community altar, carefully decorating it with photographs, candles, and bright orange cempasúchil (marigold) flowers.

Of course, no Day of the Dead celebration would be complete without food. We’ll gather together to share stories, practice our Spanish, and indulge in delicious pan de muerto—the iconic sweet, anise-scented bread dusted with sugar that tastes just like tradition.

Come learn Spanish with us and experience Mexico’s most magical tradition from the inside. ¡Disfruta el Día de Muertos!