In honor of one of Mexico’s most cherished traditions, the annual Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration returns to the Mexican Riviera at the exquisite Mayakoba resorts. From October 29 through November 2, destination-wide programming will be inspired by remembrance, artistry and connection across the luxurious 595-acre home to Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Fairmont Mayakoba, Rosewood Mayakoba, and the recently debuted Alila Mayakoba, the first Alila hotel in Mexico and the Caribbean.
“At Mayakoba, we believe the most meaningful luxury experiences are those that create a genuine connection to a destination; its people, traditions and stories,” said Luis Durán, CEO of RLH Properties, the owner group behind Mayakoba.
Día de Muertos
Dating back thousands of years to Indigenous civilizations in Mexico, Día de los Muertos honors the enduring bond between past and present. Rooted in the belief that loved ones return to visit those they have left behind, the tradition is celebrated through ofrendas (traditional altars), cempasúchil flowers, music, food, and shared rituals that preserve the memories and stories of generations past.
Mayakoba’s Dia de los Muertos weekend weaves regional folklore throughout the guest experience, celebrating the stories, customs and cultural heritage that have long shaped the Riviera Maya. Mayakoba’s imaginative celebration is anchored by a tribute to the local legend of Zunu, a hummingbird believed to guide visitors between worlds. From the moment guests arrive, rituals rooted in ancestral traditions immerse the senses through rich aromas and tasting experiences inspired by the culinary memories of generations past. The celebration then unfolds through destination-wide culinary collaborations, vibrant art installations, live performances, wellness offerings, and Mayakoba’s signature nighttime canal journey.
Highlights include:
The Once-in-a-Lifetime Boat Journey: The pinnacle of the celebration, guests will embark on a nighttime procession through Mayakoba’s waterways aboard electric boats, where floating artistic installations and live performances create memorable tributes.
Culinary Legends & Cross-Property Takeovers: Mayakoba’s culinary leaders—including Executive Chefs Edgar Chávez (Rosewood Mayakoba), Alejandro Rodríguez (Banyan Tree Mayakoba), and Daniel Noguera (Fairmont Mayakoba)—will host exclusive dining events. Highlights include Banyan Tree’s immersive “Dinner of Legends” (a dark Mexican culinary experience paired with Mayan folklore and Catrina parades) and ash-infused cocktails; Zunu-inspired mixology at Rosewood’s acclaimed Zapote Bar; and special F&B programming at Fairmont and Alila.
Live Performances & Cultural Programming: Traditional music, dance and cultural performances throughout the destination will celebrate the spirit of Día de los Muertos.
Interactive Masterclasses & Workshops: Guests can participate in hands-on culinary traditions, including traditional Pan de Muerto baking classes at Oriente, mixology workshops at Cocina Corazón, and cooking masterclasses hosted by Chef Sandra de la Mora at El Pueblito.
Cultural Rituals & Family Programming: Every age group can connect with the heritage of Día de los Muertos through candle-lighting ceremonies, custom lobby altars, Zunu-inspired children’s activities at Rosewood, and specialized wellness rituals across all resort spas.
Mayakoba was envisioned as a destination where luxury is inseparable from Mexico’s extraordinary natural beauty and cultural heritage. Connected by emerald lagoons, winding waterways, a sugar-sand beach, and protected mangrove forests, the one-of-a-kind resort provides a distinctive setting for experiences that celebrate a deep sense of place.
