DRONE - Mexico's marigold fields draw visitors ahead of Day of Dead celebrations

TLAJOMULCO, MEXICO - OCT. 30, 2026: Vibrant orange marigold fields attracted visitors to the municipality of Tlajomulco de Zuniga in Mexico's Jalisco state on Friday, Oct. 30, ahead of the traditional Day of the Dead celebrations.

Tourists walked through fields of blooming marigolds, locally known as cempasuchil, while agricultural workers harvested the flowers to meet growing demand ahead of the holiday.

The iconic orange flowers are traditionally used to decorate altars and graves during Day of the Dead celebrations, held annually on Nov. 1 and 2 to honor deceased loved ones.

In Mexican tradition, the flowers' bright colors and distinctive scent are believed to guide the souls of the departed back to their families.

Mexico produces more than 20,000 metric tons of marigolds annually to meet demand for the celebrations.