By José Palacios y Román—

Across Mesoamerica, communities have honored the connection between the living and the dead for centuries. In Mexico, these traditions have become intertwined with the Catholic observances of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Each year, on November 1 and 2, Día de Muertos brings families together to remember loved ones through altars, offerings, food, music and celebration.

In Zapotec tradition, Xandú is associated with Día de Muertos and the remembrance of those who have died. Drawing on this heritage, the Huatulco Hotel Association, together with hospitality partners in Tangolunda, La Crucecita and Santa Cruz, is organizing the second edition of the Xandú Festival.

The festival takes place on October 30, 2026, at Plaza de la Guelaguetza, also known as Plaza Benito Juárez, across from Marina Chahué.

Last year’s inaugural celebration began with a parade of illuminated floats winding through the streets before arriving at the plaza. There, residents and visitors gathered for food, drinks, live music and dancing. The festival brought together local businesses and the wider community in a celebration of Huatulco’s cultural traditions.

Art and Tradition in the 2026 Edition

This year, visual art will play a larger role in the festivities. Art Gallery Copalli and the women’s collective La Magia del Color have issued an open call inviting artists from across the Oaxacan coast to submit work by October 10.

Artists are encouraged to explore Mexico’s spiritual heritage, cultural roots, traditions and collective memory.

A selection committee will choose 24 works for exhibition during the festival. RE/MAX is sponsoring the art competition and will purchase the winning painting.

Beginning November 2, the selected works will be exhibited at Art Gallery Copalli in Tangolunda, where they will also be available for purchase.

The Xandú Festival offers residents and visitors an opportunity to experience Día de Muertos traditions while discovering the work of artists from the Oaxacan coast.

Festival: October 30, Plaza de la Guelaguetza, across from Marina Chahué.

Art exhibition: Beginning November 2, Art Gallery Copalli, Tangolunda.

Admission is open to everyone.