The Día de los Muertos is one of the most significant celebrations in Latin America, a festival that honors loved ones who are no longer with us, connecting the present with the past through ancestral traditions. Although it is commonly associated with Mexico, Ecuador also has its own way of commemorating the deceased, especially in its capital.
In Quito, the Día de los Muertos is also an opportunity to experience a rich fusion of indigenous culture and colonial Catholic customs.
But it’s not just about the festivities. Planning a trip also includes choosing the best hotel to stay in Quito, Ecuador, something crucial to fully enjoy the experience.
How does Ecuador celebrate “Día de los Muertos”?
Día de los Muertos is a pre-Hispanic festival that has evolved over time and today combines indigenous and Catholic traditions. This celebration, far from being a moment of sadness, is a joyful occasion where the living remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones who are no longer present.
It takes place on November 1 and 2, coinciding with the Catholic holidays of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Día de los Muertos is its focus on celebrating life rather than death. It reflects the belief that death is just another part of the life cycle and that the deceased remain spiritually present. This perspective highlights the importance of keeping the memory of loved ones alive and celebrating the legacy they left behind.
In Ecuador, although the customs are less internationally known, the celebration includes very particular traditions such as the preparation of two iconic elements: guaguas de pan (bread dolls) and colada morada (a thick drink made with fruits, spices, and purple corn), which have deep roots in indigenous culture and are shared with family during these days.
Interesting facts about Dia de los Muertos
Pre-Hispanic origins
The Día de los Muertos has its roots in the indigenous cultures of Mesoamerica, such as the Aztecs, Mayans, Purépechas, and Totonacs, who performed rituals to honor their ancestors. For them, death was seen as a continuation of the life cycle.
Ofrenda altars
The altars or “ofrendas” are a central component of the celebration. Photos of the deceased are placed alongside foods and drinks they used to enjoy, candles, incense, flowers, and significant objects. It is believed that these offerings help guide the spirits back to the world of the living to enjoy the gifts left in their honor.
Guaguas de Pan and Colada Morada in Ecuador
In Ecuador, guaguas de pan (bread dolls symbolizing the deceased) and colada morada (a thick drink made with purple corn, fruits, and spices) are two essential elements that are prepared and consumed with family as part of the Día de los Muertos traditions.
Regional differences
Although the Día de los Muertos is celebrated in many parts of Latin America, traditions vary. In Mexico, sugar skulls and elaborate altars are common. In Ecuador, the holiday has a more intimate and familial tone, centered around sharing traditional foods and visiting cemeteries.
Global recognition
In 2008, UNESCO declared the Día de los Muertos an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its importance and the cultural value it brings, not just in Mexico but in other nations where it is celebrated.
Beliefs about the return of the deceased
Many families believe that during the Día de los Muertos, the souls of loved ones return to the world of the living to enjoy the offerings and the company of their relatives. For this reason, parties and meals are organized in their honor.
It’s not Halloween
Although both holidays are celebrated around the same dates, the Día de los Muertos and Halloween are very different in their origins and meanings. While Halloween has Celtic roots and is associated with costumes and fun, the Día de los Muertos is a solemn and spiritual celebration that honors life and death.
Events for Día de los Muertos in Quito
If you plan to be in Quito during this festival, here are some events and activities you can’t miss.
Visits to traditional cemeteries
One of the most important traditions of the Día de los Muertos in Quito is visiting cemeteries to honor the deceased. The El Batán Cemetery and the San Diego Cemetery, two of the most emblematic in the city, come to life during this time. Families decorate graves with flowers and candles, and many share moments of reflection and togetherness, enjoying traditional foods such as guaguas de pan and colada morada.
If you visit these places, it’s an opportunity to observe local customs up close and understand the deep respect for departed loved ones.
Handicraft and traditional food fair
Quito becomes a gathering point for art and gastronomy during the Día de los Muertos. In main plazas and markets, craft fairs are organized where visitors can buy handmade products, from souvenirs to traditional decorations.
Cultural events
In the most important plazas of Quito Old Town, such as Plaza de la Independencia and Plaza San Francisco, cultural events are usually held, including theatrical performances, traditional dance, and concerts in honor of the Día de los Muertos. Many of these events are free and open to the public, making them an excellent option for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
Guided tours of Quito Old Town
The Día de los Muertos is an excellent occasion to explore Quito Old Town, one of the best-preserved in Latin America and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During this time, some guided tours offer personalized experiences that combine the history of colonial Quito with the tradition of the Día de los Muertos. These tours usually include visits to colonial churches, museums, and key places that play an important role in the city’s religious and cultural traditions.
Art exhibitions and ofrenda altars
Several museums and cultural centers in Quito display altars and offerings dedicated to historical and cultural figures of Ecuador. Museums such as the Museo de la Ciudad and the Museo Nacional often organize temporary exhibitions showcasing the diversity of altars and rituals throughout the country. These exhibitions are a fantastic way to learn more about how the Día de los Muertos is celebrated in different regions of Ecuador and the cultural influences that have shaped this tradition.
Colada Morada and Guaguas de Pan Festival
One of the most beloved activities for both locals and tourists is the Colada Morada and Guaguas de Pan Festival, organized in various markets and cultural spaces. During this festival, local chefs and traditional families compete to prepare the best version of these iconic holiday dishes. Visitors can taste different versions of colada morada, from the most traditional to the most innovative, while learning about the ingredients and the history behind this drink.
The weather in Quito in november
In November, the temperature in Quito ranges between 10°C and 20°C (50°F and 68°F). Mornings and evenings tend to be cool, so it’s recommended to bring a light jacket. During the day, temperatures can rise to pleasant levels, ideal for exploring Quito Old Town and other tourist attractions.
November marks the beginning of the rainy season in Quito, with an average of 10 to 12 rainy days per month. Although frequent, the rains are usually brief and occur mainly in the afternoon. It’s common for the day to start sunny, but by noon or afternoon, showers or passing storms may develop. Therefore, it’s advisable to carry an umbrella or a waterproof jacket to stay dry during walks.
Despite the rain, Quito is located at a high altitude, about 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level, which means solar radiation can be strong even on cloudy days. It’s recommended to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors during the midday hours.
Have you already looked for hotels in Quito, Ecuador?
Día de los Muertos festivities in Quito attract both locals and international tourists, making this time especially busy. Therefore, booking in advance is essential to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
To enjoy the festivities and have quick access to the main events, we recommend staying in a boutique hotel that combines authenticity and comfort: the Hotel Casa Ecuatreasures.
We are located in the heart of Quito Old Town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By staying here, you will be close to Quito’s top tourist spots, including colonial churches such as the San Francisco Church, the Basilica of the National Vow, and the San Agustin Convent, as well as museums like the Museo de la Ciudad and the Museo del Carmen Alto, all steeped in the city’s history and culture.
The colonial building has been carefully restored, preserving its traditional charm while offering all the modern comforts a traveler needs.
