Xantolo 2025
Day of the Dead in Huasteca Potosina
Experience the most authentic and ancestral Day of the Dead celebration in Mexico. A unique experience where pre-Hispanic traditions come to life through rituals, dances, music, and offerings.
About Xantolo
Xantolo is the most important Day of the Dead celebration in the Huasteca region of San Luis Potosí. This millenary festivity, whose name comes from the Latin "Sanctorum" (All Saints), represents a unique fusion between pre-Hispanic and Catholic traditions, creating one of the richest and most authentic cultural expressions in Mexico.
During these sacred days, the communities of Huasteca Potosina open their doors to share their ancestral traditions. The living and the dead reunite in a celebration full of color, music, dance, and deep spiritual meaning. It is a moment when the veil between the world of the living and the dead becomes thinner, allowing communion with departed loved ones.
What you will find at Xantolo:
- Traditional altars and offerings with marigold flowers
- Dance of the Huehues (elders) with traditional masks
- Comparsas and night processions with traditional music
- Ancestral rituals in cemeteries
- Typical gastronomy: tamales, zacahuil, pemoles, and pan de muerto
- Monumental floral arches at home entrances
- Traditional vigils and prayers
- Artisan markets with local products
- Live huapango and son huasteco music
- Mask and traditional crafts workshops
Main Activities
October 31
Arrival of children souls (little angels)
November 1
All Saints Day - Adult souls
November 2
All Souls Day - Farewell
Dance of Huehues
During all three days in public squares
Vigils
Nights in cemeteries with candles and offerings
Processions
Night walks with traditional music
Event Information
Dates
October 31 - November 2, 2025
3 days of continuous celebration
Main Municipalities
Tancanhuitz
Aquismón
Xilitla
Tamazunchale
Ciudad Valles
Tanquián de Escobedo
Access
Public Events
Free in squares and streets
Guided Tours
Available with local operators
Workshops
Prior registration required
Xantolo Gallery
Captured moments from this ancestral celebration
Dance of the Huehues
Traditional Masks
Night Procession
Unmissable Xantolo Experiences
Immerse yourself in the most authentic Day of the Dead traditions in Huasteca Potosina.
Dance of the Huehues
Witness traditional dances with elaborate masks representing ancestors and spirits.
Traditional Gastronomy
Taste the giant zacahuil, tamales, pemoles, atole, and traditional Huastecan pan de muerto.
Offerings and Altars
Admire the impressive altars of the dead decorated with marigold flowers and monumental arches.
Visitor Information
Everything you need to know to experience Xantolo in Huasteca to the fullest.
Getting There
From San Luis Potosí Capital
4-5 hours by road. Take Highway 70 towards Ciudad Valles, then connect to the different municipalities.
Public Transportation
Direct buses depart from Terminal Terrestre Potosina to Ciudad Valles, Xilitla, and Tamazunchale.
Organized Tours
Several agencies offer special Xantolo tours with transportation, guide, and cultural experiences included.
Tips for Visitors
Respect for Traditions
Xantolo is a sacred celebration. Ask permission before photographing private offerings or rituals.
What to Bring
Comfortable clothes, insect repellent, cash (many places do not accept cards), and camera.
Accommodation
Book in advance. Hotels in Huasteca fill up quickly during Xantolo.
Experience Xantolo 2025!
Discover the most authentic Day of the Dead celebration in Mexico. A spiritual and cultural experience that connects the world of the living with the world of the dead.