Sayulita Celebrates Dia de los Muertos

Last weekend, on the 1st and 2nd of November, a mystical atmosphere transformed Sayulita as the town observed the public holiday of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Deeply rooted in the Mexican tradition, locals engaged in a variety of rituals and activities to remember their beloved ones that have passed.The plaza and surrounding streets hosted alters called ofrendas, where a photo of the deceased was centrally placed, along with candles, sugar skulls, flowers, particularly the vibrant yellow-orange marigolds, and the favorite foods, drinks and personal objects of the family member being honored.

Playa de los Muertos, the beach just south of Sayulita, is aptly named due to the town´s cemetery being located there. In the midst of the jungle, the cemetery was illuminated by hundreds of candles as families gathered around the graves of those being remembered, restoring them with fresh paint and beautiful flowers. Children, some dressed in festive costumes, ran and played as their parents tended to the graves. The belief is that the dead will return that evening to enjoy the offerings left and to be with their loved ones.

In the evening, the streets buzzed with activity, parties and costumes aplenty. Some businesses chose the holiday to re-open, as Dia de Muertos officially marks the beginning of high season.

Local Sayulita residents shared what Day of the Dead means for them:

"It is a time for me to reminisce about my loved ones who have passed away! I celebrated by spreading my friend Deb´s ashes in the ocean at her favorite beach here. She and her amazing chocolates will be missed by many!"  Flor Keehn, owner of Sayulita Sol Jewelry

"I like to take time to appreciate the people who were once part of my life but have now passed on, as well as remember those who have lost someone close to them. It is another day to explore your heart and the soul of the community in which we live."  Audrey Royem, owner of Audrey International Consulting

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