Mexico’s Festivals and When To Visit
Dia De Los Muertos Mexico
If you've ever been to Mexico, you know just how many celebrations go on here. On my way through, I stumbled upon so many festivals totally by accident. It runs in their veins in the best way possible. The rich culture and history is shown in spectacular form all throughout the year. If you are planning a trip to Mexico, I'm going to show you the big festivals and when they occur. Be sure to align your trip with whichever one appeals to you most!Traveling to Mexico? Here are some posts that might interest you:
Dia De Los Muertos
When: October 29 - November 2Mostly celebrated in central and southern Mexico, Dia de los Muertos is an annual celebration of life. Mexicans believe this celebration aids the dead on the continuing spiritual journey. If you are looking for a very crowded and modern view of this holiday, Mexico City has a great scene for you.For a more relaxed, traditional setting, villages tend to do a much more grounded ceremony. My time in the villages outside Puebla was simply unforgettable. You can check this story out here. November 1 is mainly for children who have passed away; Dia de los Angelitos. November 2, however, is believed to be when the souls return to visit their family members each year.
Mexican Independence Day
When: September 15 - 16On September 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla urged his country men and women to rise up against Spanish rule. His cry for independence in Dolores, el grito, is something still heard today during times of celebration. Join locals and travelers alike celebrating this important shift in Mexican history.Listen to Mariachi bands, eat local food, drink and enjoy the parades. Mexico City has a big fireworks display the night of September 15. Be sure to stay up for this if you are in the area.
Guelagetza Festival
Virgen de Guadalupe
When: Last 2 weeks in JulyOaxaca de Juarez (Oaxaca City) holds this annual festival to celebrate the vast cultural diversity and traditions of the region. Each region arrives in traditional clothing to perform folk dances specific to their homes. This festival has deep roots in maintaining social ties between the different areas of Oaxaca.
Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe
When: December 12In Mexico, it is believed a man encountered the Virgin Mary on December 12, 1531, and built a church where he stood. Ever since, an annual celebration has ensues all across this very Catholic country. 5 AM mass includes mariachi bands singing Las Mañanitas, followed by Aztec dancing outside the church. Parades are quite common during this day; floats and people carrying La Virgen through the streets 'til days end.
Carnival in Mazatlan
Semana Santa Mexico
When: 5 Days in February (Varies each year)Carnival is the biggest annual event in Mazatlan, and the 3rd largest in the world. Come enjoy a variety of parades, coronations, and fireworks displays all along the malecon (boardwalk). Each year displays a different theme, so be prepared for something new and exciting. An old saying "in Mazatlan, time is measured by Carnival", shows just how well anticipated this festival is for Mexicans and tourists alike.Psst! Traveling to Mazatlan? I have a post on how to spend 24 hours here to improve your visit
Semana Santa
When: Week before Catholic EasterSemana Santa is the second most widely celebrated holiday in Mexico, preceded only by Christmas. Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, and is followed by many celebrations and masses. Iztapalapa, a part of Mexico City, is known to bring people form all over the world to observe the Passion Play, if that is something that interests you.
Las Posadas
When: December 16 - 24Also called a novenario, Las Posadas are 9 days that symbolize the 9 months Mary carried Jesus in her womb. During this time, Mexico has reenactments of Mary and Joseph's difficult journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of shelter. Locals of all ages join in these reenactments
Cinco de Mayo
Cervantino in Guanajuato
When: I'm leaving this one on you!Although Cinco de Mayo is considered more of a tequila and guacamole kind of celebration in the states, Mexico thinks of it a bit differently (let's be real though; tequila and guac are definitely still involved. May 5th signifies the Battle of Puebla, where the Mexican army defeated the French empire. Puebla offers a reenactment of the country's historical victory, followed by a grand parade of mariachi, flamenco dancing, and fireworks. If you've been to Mexico before, you know they love their fireworks just as much as their alcohol.
Cervantino of Guanajauato
When: October 14 - November 1Welcome to Latin America's largest Arts Festival, Cervantino. Guanajuato is known as a very colorful city full of folklores. What better place to enjoy a variety of arts and culture for a full two weeks. For some tips on visiting Guanajuato during this busy time, check out this post!
Final Thoughts
My three months riding through Mexico, I accidentally stumbled upon countless festivals, even in the smaller towns (seriously, I lost count). The Mexican culture is one of celebrating life, what they believe happens once we pass, and everything in between! I truly love these people, and hope your adventures will be as fulfilling and memorable as mine.
'Til next time,Pete - A Traveling Teacher