Xoxocotlán Old Cemetery Panteón Viejo
Experience the vibrant heart of Oaxaca's Day of the Dead at Xoxocotlán's Panteón Viejo, a place of profound remembrance and community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Día de Muertos magic
Xoxocotlán Old Cemetery Panteón Viejo
Best Time
Día de Muertos magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the vibrant heart of Oaxaca's Day of the Dead at Xoxocotlán's Panteón Viejo, a place of profound remembrance and community.
"A deeply spiritual and communal celebration of life and remembrance."
Book Ahead for Día de Muertos
Accommodations and transport fill up fast for Day of the Dead. Plan months in advance! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground and cobblestones. Comfort is key! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Día de Muertos Altars
Throughout the cemetery
Witness breathtakingly decorated altars, a kaleidoscope of marigolds, candles, and offerings. A true feast for the senses.
The Old Chapel
Within Panteón Viejo
A beautifully aged, semi-destroyed chapel adds a poignant, historic charm to the cemetery's atmosphere.
Candlelit Night of Remembrance
Throughout the cemetery
Experience the magic of October 31st, when the cemetery glows with thousands of candles, honoring departed loved ones.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Day of the Dead Spirit
Respectful Exploration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead for Día de Muertos
Accommodations and transport fill up fast for Day of the Dead. Plan months in advance! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground and cobblestones. Comfort is key! :athletic_shoe:
Be Respectful & Mindful
This is a sacred space. Observe quietly and avoid disrupting ceremonies. :pray:
Capture the Atmosphere
Photography is welcome, but ask permission before taking close-ups of people. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead for Día de Muertos
Accommodations and transport fill up fast for Day of the Dead. Plan months in advance! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground and cobblestones. Comfort is key! :athletic_shoe:
Be Respectful & Mindful
This is a sacred space. Observe quietly and avoid disrupting ceremonies. :pray:
Capture the Atmosphere
Photography is welcome, but ask permission before taking close-ups of people. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Market
A small market nearby offers snacks, flowers, and local crafts. :shopping_cart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the profound and beautiful experience of Día de Muertos at Xoxocotlán Old Cemetery, highlighting the vibrant altars, candlelit nights, and the warm welcome from locals. It's a deeply spiritual and culturally rich event that leaves a lasting impression.
"I have been here to see the festivities of Día de Muertos. On the night of the 31st of October is filled wit candles and people mourning their beloved ones. There is a very old and semi destroyed chapel that adds up to the beautiful atmosphere. Is only a few blocks away from the "new" cemetery so is worth walking there. The cemetery is small and can get crowded so be careful when you walk around the graves."
Manuel Bernal
"Small market next to the old cemetery, you can find everything: fruits, snacks, flowers, etc."
Mary Sol Miguel
"Place where the day of the dead is celebrated."
Gary Vanovich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by taxi or ride-sharing service from Oaxaca City, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Local buses also run to Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, but may require a short walk to the cemetery itself. During Día de Muertos, expect increased traffic and potentially dedicated shuttle services.
During major events like Día de Muertos, taxis and colectivos (shared vans) are usually abundant, though prices might be higher. It's wise to have a rough idea of your return route or pre-arrange transport if possible.
Yes, you can drive, but parking can be extremely challenging, especially during the Día de Muertos festivities. Many streets around the cemetery may be closed to traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to the cemetery itself is free. However, during the peak Día de Muertos celebrations, there might be organized events or specific areas that could have associated costs or require tickets for access. It's best to check local listings closer to the date.
The cemetery is typically open during daylight hours. However, for Día de Muertos, it remains open throughout the night of October 31st into November 1st, allowing visitors to participate in the all-night vigils.
During Día de Muertos, the cemetery is filled with families and visitors, creating a lively and generally safe atmosphere. The presence of thousands of candles and people makes it feel very communal. However, as with any crowded place, be aware of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cemetery offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during Día de Muertos. Focus on the vibrant altars, the glowing candles at night, the old chapel, and the expressions of people honoring their loved ones.
While generally permitted, it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of private family moments or ceremonies. Always ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
For vibrant colors and details, daytime is excellent. For a truly magical and atmospheric experience, the evening and night of October 31st, when thousands of candles illuminate the graves, is unparalleled.
🎫 🤝 Community & Culture
This cemetery is a vital cultural site, particularly renowned for its unique and deeply felt Día de Muertos celebrations. It's a place where traditions are actively preserved and shared with warmth.
Absolutely! Travelers often report being welcomed with open arms by locals, who are proud to share their traditions. The atmosphere is one of shared remembrance and celebration.
Martes de Brujas (Witch Tuesdays) are special evenings, particularly in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, that involve music, color, and joy, often held in the central park. They are part of preserving local traditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
✈️ Cultural Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Día de Muertos in Xoxocotlán
Many visitors choose to spend the entire night of October 31st in the cemetery, participating in vigils and sharing in the collective mourning and celebration. This tradition is not about sadness, but about honoring and remembering loved ones, ensuring their spirits are welcomed and celebrated. The old chapel within the cemetery adds to the poignant beauty of the scene, standing as a silent witness to generations of remembrance. It's a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds between the living and the departed, and a testament to the resilience of Mexican culture.
Beyond the main days, the 'Martes de Brujas' (Witch Tuesdays) in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán offer a glimpse into other local traditions, featuring music and vibrant festivities. While the cemetery is the heart of the Día de Muertos experience, understanding the broader cultural context enhances the visit. It's a time when the veil between worlds is believed to be thin, and the living gather to commune with their ancestors.
Navigating the Cemetery: Practicalities and Etiquette
While the atmosphere is welcoming, it's crucial to remember that this is a place of deep personal significance for many. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful observers. This means keeping noise levels down, refraining from intrusive behavior, and always asking for permission before taking close-up photographs of individuals or their personal altars. Many travelers have noted the kindness and openness of the local people, who are often happy to share their traditions, but this generosity should be met with gratitude and respect.
For those interested in photography, the cemetery offers incredible opportunities. The interplay of candlelight, colorful decorations, and the solemnity of the occasion creates a unique visual narrative. However, the best photos often come from capturing the overall atmosphere rather than focusing solely on individual graves. Consider the early morning or late evening light for softer, more evocative shots, and the night of October 31st for the truly spectacular candlelit scenes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit