Festivals in Mexico are a unique experience. Regardless of the occasion, you can expect vibrant colors, a lively atmosphere, catchy music, dancing, and amazing food.
There are more than 5,000 festivals taking place in Mexico each year, so you will probably have the chance to witness some of them whenever you visit. However, the following ones are alone worth the trip.
Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe
Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe is dedicated to Mexico’s patron saint, Virgen de Guadalupe. The festival is celebrated across the country on December 12, with the biggest festivities taking Mexico City, where the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is situated. The festivities include the Dance of the Matachines, performances by dancers with colorful headdresses, fireworks, and live music.
Fiesta Grande de Chiapa
Fiesta Grande de Chiapa honors Saint Anthony Abbot, Our Lord of Esquipulas and Saint Sebastian, and is mainly celebrated in the city of Chiapa de Corzo. The festival was recognized for its tradition and importance by UNESCO, becoming part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2010. The biggest event during Fiesta Grande de Chiapa, which takes place from January 8 to January 28, is performances by masked dancers known as Parachicos, who dance on the city streets from morning to night.
Día de los Muertos
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is Mexico’s biggest festival, celebrated in the first two days of November. Despite its somber name, the festival is actually largely cheerful, honoring the dead and celebrating life through humorous stories, gatherings, and food. Adults build colorful flowers, kids dress up in costumes and ask for gifts, while everyone writes humorous epitaphs in the form of short poems.
