Día de los Muertos – Traditions & Celebration

Week of October 24, 2026

 

Step into the heart of one of Mexico’s most meaningful traditions during a special Día de los Muertos week at The Ranch. Discover the stories and symbolism behind this vibrant celebration through colorful altars, Catrinas, traditional dance, pan de muerto, Mexican chocolate, face painting, and moments of reflection and remembrance. From a festive Chef’s Table dinner at La Cocina Que Canta to a special gathering at The Ranch, the week is a joyful celebration of life, memory, culture, and connection.

• Discover the meaning and cultural traditions of Día de los Muertos through special talks and programming.
• Experience a traditional altar, Catrinas, face painting, hair braiding, pan de muerto, Mexican chocolate, and more.
• Honor and remember loved ones who have passed by bringing a photo to place on our Día de los Muertos altar.
• Enjoy pre-Hispanic and folkloric dance performances inspired by the celebration.
• Gather for a special Día de los Muertos-themed Chef’s Table dinner at La Cocina Que Canta.
• Experience moments of reflection and remembrance, including special programming at the Labyrinth.
• Celebrate together at The Ranch with a Día de los Muertos gathering on October 29.

 

Fundación La Puerta & Día de los Muertos

Fundación La Puerta is a nonprofit organization founded by the Szekely family, the founders of Rancho La Puerta, to support the people, culture, and natural environment of Tecate. Working hand in hand with the local community, the Fundación creates educational, cultural, and environmental programs that foster a strong sense of place, connection, and pride.

For more than 24 years, the Fundación has brought Día de los Muertos to life at Parque del Profesor, transforming the park into a vibrant gathering place filled with traditional altars, Catrinas and Catrines, brilliant cempasúchil marigolds, colorful alebrijes, music, dance, storytelling, and regional foods. In recognition of its cultural significance, the celebration has been honored as “Invaluable Cultural Heritage of Mexico’s Northern Border,” a distinction presented by the Commission on Border Affairs of the Mexican Congress.

The celebration is a beautiful expression of the Fundación’s year-round mission to preserve local traditions, celebrate Tecate’s cultural heritage, and strengthen community connections. Through the close relationship between Rancho La Puerta and Fundación La Puerta, Ranch guests have a special opportunity to step beyond the gates and experience the traditions, creativity, and warm spirit of the Tecate community.