Celebrate Mexico’s Day of the Dead or Dia de los Muertos (Nov 1-2) on the charming little island of Janitzio in the state of Michoacán.

One of the most unique and beautiful traditions in Mexican culture, this colorful festival is the time when people remember and honor their deceased loved ones, with the idea that the spirits return on this one day of the year to reunite with their families. Celebrations take place in cities and villages throughout Mexico, but the festivities on this small island in Pátzcuaro Lake are not to be missed.

Easily reached by boat from Pátzcuaro, the island is home to the Purepecha indigenous group (sometimes called Tarascans) who have elaborate Day of the Dead rituals. There are processions and music, folk dances are performed and families gather in the cemetery to spend the night chanting and singing. Perhaps the most impressive sight is the fishermen in their rowboats with torches lighting up the lake.