Just days before Halloween, Aix-en-Provence welcomes a vibrant Mexican tradition. From Thursday, October 29th to Saturday, October 31st, the Día de Muertos festival takes over the city center with three days of festivities featuring music, traditional costumes, and the celebration of memory. For this fifth edition, several iconic venues are opening their doors to the public, from the Tourist Office to the Chapel of the Visitation, passing through the Studio du Faubourg. Far from being a macabre celebration, Día de Muertos honors the deceased in a joyful atmosphere, filled with flowers, songs, and vibrant colors.
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Parades, concerts, and the sounds of Mexico
On Thursday, October 29th, the festival invites the public to follow « The Thread of Memory », a procession led by the La Kuentonautica company through the streets of Aix. The evening continues to the rhythm of Mexican music, featuring singer César de Santiago, the Colibrí folk ballet, and the mariachi band CoraSon de México. On Friday, it's time for Latin sounds with Son Sinvergüenza, the Sol y Son Quartet Latino, and DJ Mercedes Latina. Finally, on Saturday, October 31st, celebrations continue with a piñata for the kids, a traditional costume parade and several concerts, including one from Colombian group Las Mompozinas, before a final evening with DJ Eden Jays.
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An altar for the deceased and workshops to discover the tradition
Another highlight of the festival: discovering the ofrenda, an altar dedicated to the deceased, decorated with flowers, candles, photographs and offerings. Set up at the Chapelle de la Visitation, you can explore it during guided tours offered Thursday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Creative workshops are also on the agenda, featuring modeling of calaveritas, piñata making and mask creation. Offered at €15 with registration on-site, these activities let you discover the symbols of Día de Muertos while getting your hands dirty. Another way to celebrate the end of October, blending Mexican culture, music and moments to share with family or friends.
Info and full program at www.aixenprovence.fr/Festival-Dia-De-Muertos-Aix