Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) is an annual holiday observed across Mexico in remembrance of loved ones who have passed. Families create ofrendas (altars) decorated with photos of deceased family members, candles, cempasúchilles (marigold flowers) and their favourite foods and drinks to welcome their spirits back to visit. With parades, vibrant costumes, music and plenty of dancing, rather than a time of mourning, this is a joyous celebration of life and death, with its roots founded in ancient traditions.

Some of the most famous festivities are held in Oaxaca, a city in southern Mexico renowned for its colourful buildings, rich indigenous heritage and exceptional cuisine. This was the perfect place for me to immerse myself in this vibrant culture, getting an authentic experience and learning first hand how locals celebrate.

Celebrations last over a few days, with some parades beginning on 31st October. The official holiday commences on 1st November with All Saints' Day remembering the departed children and 2nd November’s All Souls' Day dedicated to deceased adults.

Arrive a few days in advance to see the city come to life as decorations are put up and the locals prepare for the holiday. This also provides time to visit some of Oaxaca’s nearby landmarks, including the ancient archaeological site of Monte Albán and the magnificent, petrified waterfall of Hierve el Agua.

The Day of the Dead is a custom that has long fascinated me, with my own experiences of bereavement being a reason to celebrate and embrace life. The colourful paper flags, historic Oaxacan architecture and La Catrina (famous skeleton character) decorations make a beautiful backdrop to the celebrations and fill you with excitement for the party ahead.

With some of the liveliest street parades in the world, this is the perfect excuse to dance the night away. Dress up with the traditional makeup or flower crown and follow the sounds of music and fireworks to discover the many local parades happening all across the city, as you savour the delicious flavours of the local street food and smoky mezcal (local alcohol made from agave) along the way.

For those looking for further inspiration, the 2017 animated Pixar film Coco does an excellent job at bringing the holiday to life. Accompanied by an excellent soundtrack, the film tells the compelling story of a boy with dreams of becoming a musician who ends up stuck in the Land of Dead, learning more about his family through his journey.

Some local cemeteries open their gates to share the traditions of Day of the Dead with visitors from around the world, an experience I was very grateful to be a part of. Graves are adorned with the bright orange Marigold flowers and lit up with candles to guide the way for spirits of the deceased back from the underworld to their families. Rather than the sombre atmosphere usually associated with graveyards, these cemeteries are brimming with life and a place where families and communities are brought together to remember happy memories with their loved ones, a deeply moving sight.

Pair your visit for Day of the Dead with some time spent exploring other parts of this wonderful country. Perhaps head to the bright lights of Mexico City, visit ancient Aztec ruins or spend time unwinding on some of Mexico’s beautiful beaches on the Yucatan peninsula.