In 2016, Mexico City turned a James Bond scene into a real Day of the Dead parade; 10 years later, the celebration continues and is held by candlelight

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Marina Carrasco

 –  Editor

 ·  October 29, 2026

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What if we told you that the tradition of the famous Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City began just 10 years ago? And that it was because of a movie? Well, it’s true.

In 2015, the movie “James Bond: Spectre,” filmed in Mexico City, opened with a massive Day of the Dead parade through the streets of the Historic Center. The most curious thing is that, at that time, the city didn’t have any parades.

It was in 2016 that the capital created one inspired by the movie, which means that this year the parade turns 10. And beyond the free drone show in Chapultepec Forest, Mexico City is also hosting a concert dedicated to soundtracks and iconic songs from this time of year.

From the Screen to the Streets

Its history is recent, but it’s definitely worth mentioning. After the premiere of “James Bond: Spectre,” thousands of tourists from all over the world began arriving in Mexico City in October, asking what time and where the “big parade” would take place. There wasn’t one, of course.

So, due to tourist demand, the federal government, together with the Mexico City government, decided to create this tradition to, among other things, make the city an (even more) attractive destination for fall travel on a global scale. The first official parade took place on October 29, 2016, and it hasn’t stopped since.

Everything about the Day of the Dead concert at El Cantoral

And now, in addition to that parade and all the celebrations this weekend, there’s a concert dedicated to the Day of the Dead with a one-time performance at El Cantoral.

It will be accompanied by a string quartet, and since this is a special Candlelight edition, every corner of the stage will be illuminated by thousands of candles. The repertoire ranges from soundtracks like those of *Coco* and *Ghostbusters* to songs like “La Llorona” and “Thriller.”

Here’s all the information about the concert:

• 🎟️ Tickets: You can get them here
• 📅 Date: November 1, 2026
• ⏳ Schedule: 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 8:30 p.m.
• 📍Location: Roberto Cantoral Cultural Center (Puente Xoco s/n-Puerta A, Xoco)