Celebrate Day of the Dead 2025 the Velas Resorts way
Day of the Dead is one of the most vibrant traditions in Mexico, blending the myths and rituals of pre-Hispanic peoples with the Catholic festivities inherited from the Spanish. Each November 1st and 2nd, Mexican families pay tribute to their loved ones with altars decorated with marigold flowers, cut paper, incense, sugar skulls, pan de muerto (“bread of the dead” in English), and the favorite dish of the family member to whom the offering is dedicated.
This year, Velas Resorts has curated a Day of the Dead 2025 program that combines culture, art, gastronomy, and family experiences at its properties in Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, and the Riviera Maya. From catrina parades to themed dinners and creative workshops, guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the richness of this festivity with unique offerings in each destination.
Exclusive Day of the Dead dinner and parade in Los Cabos
At Grand Velas Los Cabos, tradition is celebrated in style. On November 2nd, the resort hosts a catrina parade that begins in the lobby and continues to the neighboring boutique hotel Mar del Cabo, accompanied by live music and dance. Guests can also join an ancestral mixology class at Frida restaurant to learn the art of traditional Mexican beverages.
The experience culminates with the “Dinner of the Souls” at Encanto restaurant in Mar del Cabo, featuring a tasting menu, thematic décor, altars, and live music.
Meanwhile, Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos presents an intimate and exclusive culinary journey: “From Mictlán to the Offering”, limited to just eight guests. This multi-sensory evening includes mixology with Mexican herbs at 51 Bar, a stop at the Agave Tasting Room, and a four-course dinner inspired by Mexico’s diverse landscapes — the sea, valley, mountains, and jungle — paired with rare tequilas and wines. Dishes may include San Carlos oysters with achiote butter and marigold petals, bluefin tuna crudo with guajillo ponzu and hoja santa chocolate, or wagyu filet with recado negro sauce, finishing with a white chocolate pan de muerto trifle. Every flavor reflects both remembrance and culinary innovation.
Tradition and mixology for Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta
Photos by Velas Resorts
The festive spirit comes alive at Velas Vallarta, with a programming that includes calavera (sugar skull) painting in the gardens, guided tours through a maze of artistic life-sized catrinas, and a traditional ofrenda honoring loved ones. Celebrations also include an ancestral mariachi-accompanied dinner.
At Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, the renowned Mexology Fest returns October 28–29. This year’s theme, “Liquid History”, explores the past and future of Mexico’s iconic spirits: tequila, mezcal, raicilla, and tepache. Guests take part in workshops, tastings, and interactive sessions guided by world-class mixologists. Included in the All-Inclusive rate, the festival transforms mixology into a sensory narrative that deeply connects with Mexico’s heritage while celebrating modern creativity.
In Casa Velas, the adults-only boutique hotel, an intimate Day of the Dead altar will be set on the lobby terrace. Adorned with marigolds, candles, and traditional offerings, it invites guests to pause, reflect, and honor the memory of their loved ones in a serene atmosphere.
Halloween and Day of the Dead in the Riviera Maya
Amidst the lush Caribbean jungle, Grand Velas Riviera Maya blends the solemnity of Day of the Dead with the playful spirit of Halloween. Festivities begin in late October with a lively Halloween night filled with costumes, candy, and entertainment for all ages.
Children can enjoy trick-or-treating around the resort, craft workshops, cupcake decorating, and a “Haunted cinema under the stars.” Families and adults alike are invited to participate in cultural activities such as catrina face painting, handmade crafts, and culinary workshops, while evenings of karaoke and themed dining bring an extra touch of fun.
Guests can also participate in spiritual workshops, such as creating Ojo de Dios dreamcatchers or traditional milagritos, and celebrate the symbolism of Mexico’s folk traditions. Together, these experiences balance cultural authenticity with family-friendly fun, making Day of the Dead an unforgettable celebration.
Whether through a dazzling catrina, a toast with mezcal, or an intimate evening by a marigold altar, celebrating the Day of the Dead 2025 at Velas Resorts is a journey that honors life through art, gastronomy, and remembrance.
