Mexico City wants to take the Day of the Dead to new heights! In 2026, a 32-meter-tall Catrina will arrive at the Zócalo with the goal of breaking the height record set by Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and becoming one of the season’s main attractions.
The figure will be part of the Monumental Altar in the Zócalo, dedicated this year to José Guadalupe Posada, creator of the Calavera Garbancera, which inspired the famous Catrina.
But how big will it be, and what record does it aim to break? Here are the details.
What Guinness World Record is the Zócalo Catrina aiming to break?
The record is currently held in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, where a monumental Catrina standing 28.15 meters tall was installed in November 2023 and officially recognized by Guinness World Records.
That figure broke its own record set in 2022, when it reached 22.67 meters, and became one of the most recognizable elements of the Day of the Dead celebrations in the tourist destination.
Now, Mexico City is preparing a 32-meter structure—that is, 3.85 meters taller than the record certified in Puerto Vallarta in 2023.
During the project’s presentation, the intention to break that record was mentioned. However, it remains to be confirmed whether there will be an official measurement and certification process by Guinness World Records.
A giant Catrina created by artists from Mexico City
Beyond its height, this monumental figure will also stand out for its handcrafted design.
The structure will be crafted using papier-mâché techniques by artists from eastern Mexico City, who will participate in the creation of this piece dedicated to one of the most iconic images of Mexican culture.
The Catrina will be accompanied by sawdust mats, approximately 100,000 cempasúchil flowers from local growers, and axolotls decorated by artists and cultural collectives.
There will also be themed lighting on the buildings surrounding the Plaza de la Constitución.
When can you see the giant Catrina in the Zócalo?
- 📅 Date: October 29 through November 2, 2026, according to the published dates
- 📍 Location: Zócalo in Mexico City, Historic Center
- 🎟️ Cost: free admission
