Day of the Dead in Mexico City: Mexican dinner and party in Xochimilco

When it comes to celebrating Mexico’s most iconic tradition, the Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos), few experiences capture the spirit quite like this tour in Mexico City’s Xochimilco. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a lively, colorful, and authentic way to partake in Mexico’s treasured customs, especially during this special time of year.

What makes this tour appealing? For starters, you’ll get to sail through the canals aboard a traditional trajinera, enjoy a Mexican-themed buffet, and sip on mezcals guided by experts—all in one evening. Plus, the chance to dress up for the occasion or get creative with makeup adds an extra layer of fun. The only possible downside? The tour is a lively, night-time event with alcohol involved, so it’s best suited for adults looking for a festive, cultural experience.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who want an interactive, immersive celebration that combines food, drinks, and authentic traditions. If you’re interested in Mexican culture beyond the museums and historical sites, or you’re seeking a memorable, social night out, this experience could be just the right fit.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Combines the vibrant Day of the Dead celebration with local cuisine and traditions.
• Scenic Canal Ride: Traveling in a colorful trajinera offers unique views of Xochimilco’s historic canals.
• Delicious Buffet: Includes a variety of Mexican dishes like tamales, enchiladas, and quesadillas.
• Mezcal Tasting: Guided by experts, highlighting different flavors and pairing options.
• Festive Atmosphere: Encourages dressing up or wearing makeup to embrace the themed party vibe.
• Convenient: Digital boarding passes and skip-the-line checks streamline the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Experience: What You Can Expect

The Starting Point and Setup

Your adventure begins at Embarcadero Zacapa, a lively dock decorated with flowers and colorful lights that set the scene for this festive night. Once there, you’ll be greeted by the staff, who will guide you to your “trajinera”—a traditional Mexican boat decked out with flowers, lights, and festive decorations. Imagine a floating party, full of lively colors and Mexican music, ready to whisk you through Xochimilco’s iconic canals.

The Canal Boat Ride: 2 Hours of Color and Charm

Traveling in a trajinera is a highlight in itself. These boats are a staple in Mexican culture, originally used by farmers and now transformed into floating restaurants and party hubs. During this two-hour cruise, you’ll be able to enjoy the air of celebration, with views of Xochimilco’s lush waterways, floating gardens, and vibrant surroundings. Guests have noted that the guides are engaging and knowledgeable, helping to make the experience both informative and fun.

Themed Dinner and Drinks

Once aboard, a Mexican buffet awaits, featuring popular dishes like tamales, enchiladas, and quesadillas. The buffet is designed to keep the energy high and flavors authentic, giving you a taste of real Mexican cuisine. Complementing the food, you’ll sip on a Cantarito, a traditional Mexican cocktail made with mezcal, served to set the mood for the night.

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Guided Mezcal Tasting

One of the standout features is the mezcal tasting, led by experts who explain the nuances of this iconic Mexican spirit. Guests often comment on the guides’ depth of knowledge, noting that they enjoyed learning about the different agaves, flavor profiles, and pairing suggestions. The mezcal tasting adds a layer of sophistication and allows you to appreciate the drink’s complex flavors while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

The Festive Night: Costumes, Music, and Celebration

Part of the fun is the opportunity for guests to dress up in costumes or makeup to embrace the Day of the Dead theme. This isn’t just a dinner; it’s a party. You’ll enjoy Mexican music, vibrant decorations, and a sense of camaraderie among fellow travelers. The overall vibe is festive, mystical, and full of joy—perfect for those looking to truly feel the spirit of Día de Muertos.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

1. Meeting at Embarcadero Zacapa

This is the natural starting point where the crew from Curado Tours will check you in and provide your digital boarding pass. The location is easy to find, marked by its colorful, flower-adorned decorations, and is right on the water’s edge. The staff is friendly, and the arrival process is generally smooth with skip-the-line security, ensuring you won’t waste precious time.

2. The Dinner Cruise (Approximately 1 Hour)

Once on the trajinera, the dinner begins. The buffet includes Mexican staples, giving you a taste of local flavors without the hassle of hunting down restaurants. The ambiance is lively, with music playing and the boat gently rocking on the water. Guests mention that the food is tasty and plentiful, making it a good value for the price.

3. Mezcal Tasting Class (Approximately 30 Minutes)

After dinner, the focus shifts to mezcal, with guided tasting led by certified experts. They explain the art of mezcal production, differences between varieties, and suggest pairings. This part of the experience is valuable for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of Mexican spirits in a relaxed setting.

4. Canal Sightseeing (Approximately 30 Minutes)

The final leg of the tour offers a short sightseeing cruise. You’ll see the canals from a different perspective, with ample opportunities for photos and enjoying the peaceful, scenic environment of Xochimilco. Many reviews emphasize the beautiful views and lively atmosphere, especially at night when the lights reflect on the water.

What We Loved About This Tour

Knowledgeable guides are a recurring highlight, with reviewers praising their friendliness and expertise. Several mention that the mezcal tasting was both fun and educational, with guides willing to answer questions thoroughly. The festive, themed atmosphere offers an authentic and memorable celebration, especially if you dress up or get creative with makeup.

The combination of food, drinks, and scenic canal cruising creates a well-rounded, immersive experience that captures the essence of Día de Muertos in Mexico City. It’s a great way to connect with local traditions while enjoying a lively, social evening.

Considerations and Tips

While the experience is lively and full of color, it’s worth noting that alcohol consumption is involved, so it’s best for those comfortable with drinking in a party setting. Guests should eat beforehand, as the tour includes a fair amount of drinking and dancing. Since transportation isn’t included, plan your arrival or departure accordingly, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity. If you’re traveling with children or prefer daytime activities, this might not be suitable, as it’s tailored toward adults looking for a festive, night-time celebration.

Final Thoughts

This Day of the Dead tour in Xochimilco provides a vivid, joyful insight into Mexican traditions. It offers a perfect mix of scenic canal cruising, authentic cuisine, expert-led mezcal tasting, and festive party vibes. The experience’s value lies in its immersive nature, friendly guides, and lively atmosphere, making it ideal for travelers wanting more than just sightseeing—those seeking an authentic celebration rooted in local culture.

If you love participating in local festivals, enjoy engaging with food and drink, or want to dress up and have fun in a spirited setting, this tour offers a memorable night out. It’s especially suited for adults who want to experience Día de Muertos in a way that’s both cultural and entertaining.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation is not included. Guests need to arrive at the meeting point, Embarcadero Zacapa, on their own.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s intended for guests over 18 due to the alcohol involved and the party atmosphere.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for an outdoor evening, and feel free to wear costumes or makeup to match the Día de Muertos theme.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2.5 hours, usually scheduled in the evening.

What kind of drinks are included?
Local drinks such as flavored water are provided, along with a Mexican cocktail called Cantarito, made with mezcal.

Is the mezcal tasting educational?
Yes, guided by certified experts, the mezcal tasting offers insights into flavor profiles and pairing suggestions.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your spot, especially during the busy Day of the Dead season.

Can I come in costume?
Absolutely, guests are encouraged to dress in themed costumes or makeup for added fun.

To sum it up, this tour offers a lively, authentic way to celebrate Day of the Dead in Mexico City. It combines scenic beauty, delicious food, culture, and festive fun—making it a memorable night for those eager to connect with Mexican traditions in a joyful setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: