Scenes from the Day of the Dead celebration in San Luis Potosi, Mexico

Every year in the Mexican region of Huasteca Potosina, the Day of the Dead, or Xantolo, is celebrated from October 30 to November 2. The tradition, which dates back to pre-Hispanic times, is a “festival of souls,” symbolizing the relationship between life and death, memory and the present, and the living and their ancestors. Here, Fashion examines how Xantolo is recognized in four municipalities in San Luis Potosí: San Vicente Tancuayalab, Matlapa, San Martín Chalchicuautla and Tanquián de Escobedo.

What is Xantolo?

Xantolo is the Day of the Dead celebration of the Huasteca region, which includes the Mexican states of Hidalgo, San Luis Potosí, Veracruz, Tamaulipas and Querétaro. In the celebration of Xantolo, the altar is an essential element that symbolizes the connection between the world of the living and the world of the dead, acting as a sacred portal to receive the spirits of loved ones who return in these days. For the Huasteca communities that celebrate Xantolo, the altar is more than a simple arrangement; it is a representation of the duality between life and death and the journey souls undertake to find peace. The structure and layout of the altar are full of symbolism and elements that serve a specific purpose, each intended to guide, honor and welcome the deceased.

San Vicente Tancuayalab

Xantolo is experienced in a very special way in the municipality of San Vicente Tancuayalab, San Luis Potosí. Here it is more than a tradition, it is part of the identity of the indigenous communities; entire families design their costumes together.