At midnight in Mexico City’s San Gregorio Pantheon, families gather to celebrate Día de los Muertos, honoring ancestors with mariachis, candles, and orange cempasúchil flowers.

For locals like Antonio Meléndez, preserving these traditions amid growing tourism and Halloween influences is vital, keeping the essence of their heritage alive.

Day of the Dead, rooted in Indigenous and Catholic customs, involves altars and offerings to honor the dead, with family members even staying overnight at gravesides, the Associated Press has reported.

While some mourn the commercialization, others see it as an opportunity to share their culture, passing traditions to younger generations as tourists come to experience this unique celebration.

Written by B.C. Begley