Paseo de las Ánimas (Festival de las Ánimas)
In real life Friday, October 30, 2026 · 6:00 PM
The high point of Mérida's Hanal Pixán festival, about two hours from Chichén Itzá: a candlelit procession of souls with painted faces through the historic centre.
The Paseo de las Ánimas (Procession of Souls) is the centrepiece of Mérida's Festival de las Ánimas, which in 2026 runs from October 24 to November 2. The festival celebrates Hanal Pixán, the Yucatecan Maya Day of the Dead tradition.
The procession starts at 6pm on Friday, October 30, at the Cementerio General and ends at Parque de San Juan. It is a solemn but popular event that draws locals and visitors, many with painted faces. Mérida is about two hours from Chichén Itzá.
🎟 Cost: Check the organiser's site for prices; admission isn't listed
🕒 When: Friday, October 30, 2026, 6:00 PM
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ℹ️ The Festival de las Ánimas runs about Oct 24/25 – Nov 2, 2026. Sources differ on the start date.
What to expect
- A candlelit procession from the Cementerio General to Parque de San Juan
- Participants with painted skull faces in traditional dress
- A Desfile de Catrinas in the Plaza Grande on Saturday, October 31, at 8pm
- A monumental altar in the Plaza Grande and a mucbipollo (Day of the Dead tamale) fair during the festival
Tips for going
- Arrive early along the route for a good view.
- It is a remembrance event, so be respectful when taking photos.
- Mérida is about two hours from Chichén Itzá, so you can combine the two if you stay overnight.
Questions people ask
When does the procession start?
6pm on Friday, October 30, 2026.
What is the route?
From the Cementerio General to Parque de San Juan.
Are there other events?
Yes. The festival runs October 24–November 2 and includes a Catrinas parade on October 31.
About Chichén Itzá
Chichén Itzá was a great Maya city of the Yucatán. El Castillo, the Temple of Kukulcán, rises from its great plaza, and on the equinoxes a shadow serpent slides down its steps.
Getting there: Chichén Itzá is a day trip from Mérida, Valladolid or Cancún. Arrive at opening time to beat the heat and the crowds.
More about Chichén Itzá and its 3D version →
Also in Chichén Itzá
In real lifeDetails checked against yucatanalamano.com. Organizers change plans, so confirm there before you go.
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