Mexico celebrates Day of the Dead with dazzling costume parades

Mexico comes alive during the annual Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, where families welcome back souls of deceased loved ones with food, Catrina parades and performances of all kinds.

The festivity, inspired by the James Bond film "Spectre," returns to the streets of Mexico City.

Puppets, balloons, candles and ornate skulls and skeletons known as catrinas that are often hand-painted with bright orange marigolds float in massive parades attended by over 40 groups along the main avenue.

The offerings of treats, food and mezcal are customary on the night of November 1.

Families decorate altars as it was thought this would help the dead in their transition to the afterlife.