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

Every year in the Huasteca Potosina region of Mexico, the Day of the Dead, or Xantolo, is celebrated between October 30 and November 2. The tradition, which dates back to pre-Hispanic times, is a “feast of souls”, symbolizing relationship. between life and death, memory and present, and the living and their ancestors. Here, Vogue explores how Xantolo is recognized in four municipalities of 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 in 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 on these days. For the Huasteca communities that celebrate Xantolo, the altar goes beyond being a simple arrangement; it is a representation of the duality of life and death and the journey souls take to find peace. The structure and layout of the shrine is full of symbolism and purposeful elements, each meant 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, more than a tradition, it is part of the identity of the native communities; entire families create their costumes together.