The 2026 Axixic Vive festival is on the horizon with multiple Day of the Dead-related customs feted on November 1 and 2, plus three collateral events starting this weekend.
The two-day festival draws throngs of residents and out-of-towners to the heart of the Pueblo Mágico, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
The three events leading up to Día de Muertos are: The Paulina Sevilla “El Catrin” art exhibit, opening Saturday, October 24, 5 p.m., at the Centro Cultural Ajijic; the Al Calor del Mariachi performance at the Ajijic Malecón on Thursday, November 29, 6 p.m.; and the Fiesta of Souls presentation that leads spectators from the San Andrés church to the plaza on Friday, October 30, 6:30 p.m.
The program for November 1 and 2 encompasses events at the town plaza, along Calle Colón-Morelos and the waterfront Malecón.
The list of activities released this week highlights an exhibition of Diá de Muertos memorial altars dedicated to lost loved ones, to be displayed around the plaza and the Colón-Morelos commercial zone. Viewing hours for both dates are 2 to 10 p.m.
Sunday, November 1 also features the Desfile de Angelitos parade, a remembrance for deceased infants. Youngsters costumed as little angels will depart from the plaza at 4:30 p.m. and parade down Colón to the Malecón.
A second parade on Monday, November 2 will feature participants dressed and made up like Catrín and Catrina figures. The route starts at Seis Esquinas at 6 p.m., and follows Calle Hidalgo to the plaza, before turning down to the waterfront via Colón.
The Camino a Mictlán canine costume contest is set for Monday, November 2, 4:30 p.m. at the Malecón, where Xoloitzcuintles, Chihuahuas, Calupoh wolfdogs, and Caramelo mixed breeds and their human companions will dress up to compete for prizes. A fishing canoe parade follows at 5 p.m.
Musical entertainment, a food fair and other attractions will add more life to the Day of the Dead festivities. Follow Festival Axixix Vive on Facebook for more details.