La Catrina was originally created by cartoonist Jose Guadalupe Posada in the 1900s as a gesture of fun at Mexico’s wealthy gentry. The figure has now become the centre of pre-Day of the Dead celebrations.

Parade participant Edith Gonzalez said although La Catrina had become more associated now with other holidays celebrating the dead it was a way to standout from Halloween and to celebrate Mexican traditions.

All Saints Day on November 1, and the Day of the Dead on November 2, are traditionally two of Mexico’s most important holidays which interweave Spanish influences with indigenous ancestor worship, much celebrated in Latin America. (Euronews)