The bay of Cabo San Lucas was the setting for the fourth edition of the “Altares de Muertos” nautical parade, an event full of tradition and color that could be seen from different strategic points such as El Médano beach, Coral Negro and the boardwalk. More than 20 boats, decorated and illuminated, sailed through the waters from Pueblo Bonito beach to the entrance of the marina breakwater, then turned back and made a second turn, displaying a splendor that celebrated the traditional Day of the Dead.

The festivities included a fireworks show that illuminated the sky and captured the attention of those in attendance. This tribute to the deceased was enriched by the participation of the Municipal Institute of Indigenous and Afro-Mexican Affairs, directed by Leonardo Jiménez Castejón, who contributed with a decorated boat and a group of dancers who presented choreographies such as the Xochipitzahuatl dance, a symbolic piece of Nahuatl culture commonly performed at vigils and Day of the Dead celebrations.

In the Amelia Wilkes Plaza, in the center of Cabo San Lucas, various cultural activities took place. Visitors, both local and foreign —mainly American tourists— enjoyed the event, immersing themselves in this Mexican tradition that strives to stay alive year after year. The University Altar Competition inaugurated the activities on November 1 on the esplanade of the Puerto Paraíso Mall, followed by the Catrinas Competition at 5 p.m. and an artistic and cultural event at 8 p.m. with the participation of local artists.

However, some attendees expressed that the organization left something to be desired, commenting that the boats took a while to advance towards the marina, which caused some impatience while waiting for the moment when the light of dusk would allow them to appreciate the illuminated decorations. Although the decoration of the boats and the installed catrinas were praised, they did not fully shine due to the schedule and the long wait.

The celebration also impacted mobility in the tourist area, where lines and traffic were recorded at some road intersections due to the flow of attendees leaving the event. Despite these details, the parade and the activities around the Day of the Dead once again consolidated the importance of this holiday in the cultural identity of Los Cabos.