Top 9 festivals in Mexico

Mexico, a land renowned for its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine, pulsates with energy throughout the year thanks to its numerous festivals. From the awe-inspiring Day of the Dead celebrations to the electrifying Guelaguetza performances, these fiestas offer a window into the soul of Mexico and a chance to experience its unique traditions. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of mariachi music, witness colourful parades, savour regional specialities, and create lasting memories as you explore these top 10 festivals in Mexico:

1. Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead – November 1st & 2nd): Step beyond the veil and celebrate life rather than mourn death at Día de Muertos, a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage tradition. Families create colourful altars adorned with sugar skulls, marigolds (cempasúchil), and favourite belongings to honour deceased loved ones. Witness vibrant parades, enjoy traditional Pan de Muerto (bread of the dead), and experience the beauty of this unique and respectful celebration of life and memory.

   

   Day of the Dead, Mexico

2. Guelaguetza Festival (Oaxaca City – July): Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Oaxaca at the Guelaguetza Festival, a two-day extravaganza showcasing the diverse indigenous communities of the state. Delegations from eight regions present elaborate folk dances in colourful costumes, accompanied by live music. Witness the “Monday of the Hill” (Lunes del Cerro) procession with its breathtaking floral tapestries (tapete floral), and savour the distinct flavours of Oaxacan cuisine.

3. Carnaval (Various locations – February/March): Unleash your inner party animal and join the vibrant revelry of Carnaval, Mexico’s pre-Lenten celebration. The most renowned celebrations take place in Veracruz and Mazatlán, featuring elaborate parades with floats, costumed dancers, and lively music. Embrace the playful atmosphere, don a mask and colourful attire, and dance the night away to the infectious rhythms of salsa and cumbia.

4. Festival Internacional Cervantino (Guanajuato – October): Immerse yourself in a world of art and culture at the Festival Internacional Cervantino, a prestigious performing arts festival held in the colonial city of Guanajuato. This four-week extravaganza features theatrical productions, dance performances, concerts, and art exhibitions, attracting international and national artists. Explore the charming cobbled streets of Guanajuato, soak up the artistic atmosphere, and witness a diverse range of cultural performances.

5. Noche Mexicana (Mexican Independence Day – September 15th & 16th): Celebrate Mexican independence with patriotic fervour on Noche Mexicana (Mexican Night). The festivities culminate on the night of September 15th with a ceremonial shout of “Viva México!” (Long Live Mexico!) from the presidential balcony, followed by a magnificent fireworks display. Enjoy traditional mariachi music, savour delicious antojitos (snacks), and experience the national pride that resonates throughout the country.

6. Festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe (Basilica of Guadalupe, Mexico City – December 12th): Witness a massive pilgrimage and celebration of faith at the Basilica of Guadalupe on December 12th, the feast day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, Mexico’s patron saint. Millions of devotees flock to the basilica for processions, special masses, and traditional music performances. Experience the spiritual significance of this event and witness the fervent devotion of the Mexican people.

7. Festival Maya de Xcaret (Xcaret Park, Cancún – Various Dates): Journey back in time and experience the grandeur of Mayan civilization at the Festival Maya de Xcaret. Witness captivating dance performances depicting Mayan rituals, explore recreated ancient settlements and participate in interactive workshops. Immerse yourself in the rich Mayan culture, enjoy traditional cuisine, and be dazzled by the night-time fire ceremony.

8. La Tambora (Veracruz – February): Feel the rhythm of Veracruz at La Tambora, a lively festival celebrating the unique musical genre of the same name. Vibrant parades fill the streets with dancers in colourful costumes, the infectious beat of the jarocho drum (tambora) pulsates through the air, and local musicians showcase their talents. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes, a hallmark of Veracruz cuisine, and move to the irresistible rhythm of La Tambora.

   

   Balloon Festival

9. Festival Internacional del Globo (Balloon Festival) (León, Guanajuato – November): Witness a breathtaking spectacle of hot air balloons take flight at the Festival Internacional del Globo. Dozens of colourful balloons dot the sky, creating a magical scene. Enjoy live music performances, family-friendly activities, and the opportunity to witness these majestic balloons up close.