Mexican Surfers Pay Tribute to Día de los Muertos: Portrait of Ilianet Núñez
Dia de Los Muertos in the Waves: Portrait of Ilianet Nuñez
Día de los Muertos: A Celebration of Life and Remembrance in Mexico
Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is one of Mexico’s most vibrant and cherished traditions. Celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, this holiday is dedicated to honoring loved ones who have passed away. Families set up colorful altars, or ofrendas, in their homes, adorned with photographs of the deceased, their favorite foods, marigold flowers (known as cempasúchil), and candles to guide their spirits back home. It is a time to remember with joy rather than sorrow, as loved ones are believed to visit during these days. Visiting gravesites to leave flowers and offerings is also a common practice, turning cemeteries into lively, flower-filled spaces brimming with love and respect.
Surfers Celebrate Día de los Muertos in the Waves
About five years ago, a group of local surfers from a small surf town in Mexico decided to honor this tradition in their own unique way. Every November 2nd, they paddle out into the ocean dressed in costumes and wearing the iconic La Catrina makeup, an artistic representation of the Día de los Muertos sugar skull. This vibrant, colorful makeup symbolizes the celebration of life and the memory of loved ones who have passed.
Among these surfers is Ilianet Núñez, a talented longboarder and an inspiring figure in her community. A mother of two, Ilianet balances her life as a surfer, entrepreneur, and mom with extraordinary grace. She owns and operates a beachfront restaurant, yet she still makes time to ride the waves every morning at her local break.
I had the privilege of documenting Ilianet during this year’s Day Of The Dead celebration. With her La Catrina-inspired makeup and costume, she embodied the spirit of this beautiful tradition, blending the art of surfing with the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. Watching her glide effortlessly on her longboard, the waves became her canvas, and the ocean a moving tribute to life, love, and remembrance. It was a powerful and heartfelt homage to those no longer with us, showing how tradition and passion can beautifully intertwine.
